Why can we look directly at the sun at sunset and sunrise?
Actually you really shouldn't. There's still enough UV radiation to damage your eyes. The reason it seems like you can is that much of the visible light is being refracted off, and what's left is filtering through a greater amount of atmosphere at those times.
The Short Answer
Actually you really shouldn't. There's still enough UV radiation to damage your eyes. The reason it seems like you can is that much of the visible light is being refracted off, and what's left is filtering through a greater amount of atmosphere at those times.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Shouldn't, there's, enough
This explanation focuses on shouldn't, there's, enough and spans 45 words across 3 sentences. At 37% below the average Nature explanation (71 words), the answer takes a direct, no-frills approach — sometimes the simplest explanation is the most effective.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Actually you really shouldn't.” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 3 connected points.
How This Compares in Nature
Ranked #343 of 500 Nature questions by answer depth (top 69%). This is in the concise tier — a focused explanation that prioritizes clarity over exhaustiveness. Many readers prefer this level of directness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why we look directly at the sun at sunset and sunrise?
Actually you really shouldn't. There's still enough UV radiation to damage your eyes. The reason it seems like you can is that much of the visible light is being refracted off, and what's left is filtering through a greater amount of atmosphere at…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Nature questions?
This is a focused answer at 45 words, ranked #343 of 500 Nature questions by depth. The key concepts covered are shouldn't, there's, enough.
What approach does this answer take to explain we look directly at the sun at sunset and sunrise?
The explanation uses root cause analysis across 45 words. It is categorized under Nature and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.