Here's a breakdown:

* UV Radiation: Even during an eclipse, the Sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage your eyes. This damage can be gradual and cumulative, leading to conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration later in life.

* Infrared Radiation: The Sun also emits infrared radiation, which can cause burns on the surface of your eye.

* Visible Light: While it may seem less dangerous, the visible light from the Sun can also damage the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. This damage can lead to permanent vision loss.

Why is it even more dangerous during an eclipse?

* The "Black Hole Effect": When the Moon covers the Sun, it can be tempting to stare directly at the eclipse, as the brightness of the Sun is reduced. However, the reduction in brightness is not enough to protect your eyes.

* Pupil Dilation: When your eyes adjust to the darkness of the eclipse, your pupils dilate, allowing more harmful radiation to enter your eyes.

It's important to remember:

* Never look directly at the Sun, even for a brief moment, without proper eye protection.

* Special-purpose solar filters, like those used in eclipse glasses and handheld solar viewers, are the only safe way to look at the Sun during an eclipse.

* Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing an eclipse.

Protect your eyesight and enjoy this incredible celestial event safely!