On moonless nights, why should you look at stars from the side of your eyes rather than straight on?
5 years ago
Answered By Stephanie R
It is better to not look directly at stars because of the structure of our eyes. There are two types of light-receptor cells in the eye, rods and cones. Cone cells better function in bright light, where as rods work better in dim lighting. These cells are also localized differently in the retina. Cones are most dense towards the macula, and decrease in density away from this point. When you look slightly to the side of a star you are engaging more rod cells, thus enabling you to see the star better.
5 years ago
Answered By Michael M
I believe this relates to exposure to cosmic and UV radiation emitted from the star. Much like looking at our Sun directly, these rays can cause irreversible damage to the components of our eyes.
5 years ago
Answered By Stephanie R
It is better to not look directly at stars because of the structure of our eyes. There are two types of light-receptor cells in the eye, rods and cones. Cone cells better function in bright light, where as rods work better in dim lighting. These cells are also localized differently in the retina. Cones are most dense towards the macula, and decrease in density away from this point. When you look slightly to the side of a star you are engaging more rod cells, thus enabling you to see the star better.
5 years ago
Answered By Michael M
I believe this relates to exposure to cosmic and UV radiation emitted from the star. Much like looking at our Sun directly, these rays can cause irreversible damage to the components of our eyes.