The upcoming solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is not only a stunning celestial event but can also have a profound impact on our perception of color. Tracy Gregg, who witnessed the total solar eclipse in Tennessee in 2017, experienced a significant change in color perception during totality.
During the 2017 eclipse, many people observed the Purkinje effect, a shift in color perception caused by fluctuating light levels. This phenomenon is due to the specific anatomy of human eyes, which have cone and rod cells in the retina that react differently to changes in light. This can lead to changes in color perception during twilight and eclipses.
While humans may see subtle changes in color during an eclipse, birds with a fourth cone that can see ultraviolet light may experience even more vivid color changes. On the other hand, dogs, with only two types of cones in their retinas, likely see a muddy and pale reddish-brown during eclipses.
To make the most of the upcoming eclipse, solar eyeglasses recommends viewers wear reds and greens for the best visual contrast and to be mindful of any color perception changes. Tracy Gregg, who plans to view the upcoming eclipse from Buffalo, NY, will be using an old-fashioned camera to capture the natural colors and light during the event.
Spectators are encouraged to play with colors during the eclipse, with recommendations to bring colorful Skittles to test color perception. The eclipse is not just a visual spectacle in the sky but can also provide a unique opportunity to explore the way we perceive color during this natural phenomenon.
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