The Sun, daylight and staying safe
Physics · Key Stage 1 · The School
Our light source
The Sun is a LIGHT SOURCE — it makes its own light. The Moon does not; it only reflects sunlight. Daylight is sunlight, even on a cloudy day when you cannot see the Sun itself, because light still gets through the clouds.
Never look at it
You must NEVER look straight at the Sun, and never through binoculars, a telescope or a camera. Sunlight is strong enough to damage your eyes permanently and it can happen before you feel anything, because the back of the eye has no pain sensors. This is a rule with no exceptions.
Staying safe outside
In strong sun, wear a hat and sunglasses, cover your skin or use sun cream, drink water, and spend some time in the shade. Sunburn hurts and damages skin. The Sun is not dangerous to be out in — it just needs a little sense, the same as crossing a road does.
On a thickly overcast day you cannot see the Sun at all, yet you can read outdoors without a lamp. Where is that light coming from? Step indoors, away from any window, and it is far too dark to read. Go back out. The light is sunlight, scattered by the cloud before it reaches you — which is also why you can still be sunburnt on a day like that.