I learned that my iPhone 15 Pro Max and the upcoming 2026 total solar eclipse do not mix. I stumbled upon BGR’s article, which warned skygazers against using their phones to take pictures of the imminent cosmic event.
If you’re like me, you may be wondering “Why?” After all, who wouldn’t want to snap a photo of such an awe-inspiring celestial occurrence?
As it turns out, taking a photo of the 2026 solar eclipse could damage your iPhone’s camera hardware.
Why you shouldn’t take a photo of the 2026 solar eclipse with your phone
In the same way that you shouldn’t use a telescope or binoculars to gaze at the sun (you could melt your eyeballs off), you shouldn’t use your phone’s shooter — or any other poorly equipped camera — to take a photo of the solar eclipse.
BGR says that no smartphone is designed to handle the intense solar rays the sun emanates. “Using your camera or phone could cause the heat from the rays to become so concentrated that it could melt the lens inside,” the tech outlet warned.
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Days before the April 8, 2024 eclipse that swept across parts of North America, NASA provided similar advice.
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There is a workaround in that you can purchase filters for your phone and camera.
NEEWER 67mm Clip On Filters Kit for Phone & Camera
Credit: Amazon
But the best way to see the eclipse might very well be with your eyes rather than a camera lens. That is, if they are fully protected.
It must be emphasized that it’s imperative that your eyes are protected. NASA recommends getting “ISO 12312-2” grade solar eclipse glasses that filter harmful light.
The historic 2026 total solar eclipse is set to happen Aug. 12 and, depending where you are, might only be visible as a partial solar eclipse if it’s visible at all. Mashable’s Elisha Sauers, our space reporter, shares exactly when and where to get the best view of the 2026 solar eclipse.
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UPDATE: Aug. 9, 2026, 11:00 a.m. EDT This 2024 story was updated to include information related to the 2026 solar eclipse happening on Wednesday, Aug. 12.
