Here's why you should wear red and green for the April 8 total solar eclipse

The colors you wear during the April 8 solar eclipse can impact the viewing experience, according to experts at Solar Eyeglasses.

While it may sound silly to coordinate an outfit for a solar eclipse, there's proven science behind the idea. How our eyes perceive color varies according to light conditions.

Where are the best spots to view the total solar eclipse in Texas? Here are a few options

Why should red and green clothing be worn during the 2024 solar eclipse?

In the minutes leading up to the solar eclipse's totality, we will experience the mesopic vision zone. In this intermediate phase, a balance of low and bright light will drain our surroundings of color until they appear grayish or silvery.

"The light levels in this zone fall enough that the cone cells receive less stimulation," Solar Eyeglasses spokesperson Anna Jose explains. "This leads to a decrease in the vibrancy or saturation of colors we see as they pick the gray overtone of the surroundings."

What is the path of the 2024 solar eclipse in Texas? See interactive map

Warm tones like red and orange will be especially noticeable during this time.

There are two main types of cells in our eyes' retinas that detect light: cone cells and rod cells. Cone cells are typically active in normal daylight and help us to see colors. They operate in bright light conditions, also known as photopic vision. Then there are rod cells, which function in low light conditions, or scotopic vision. Color becomes less distinguished and mostly consists of blue and green hues.

Some Texas schools are canceling classes for the solar eclipse on April 8. Is yours?

Have you ever noticed these blue and green hues in low light? This is called the Purkinje effect, a natural phenomenon that makes green appear especially bright.

Wearing a warm tone like red in combination with the bright cool tone of green will make the solar eclipse appear more vividly. Solar Eyeglasses recommends that large groups participate in the color scheme for the best results.

Which colors should you avoid wearing during the total solar eclipse?

While complimentary colors like red and green will enhance the viewing of the solar eclipse, the opposite is true for neutral tones. Black, gray, white and brown will blend into the eclipse's shadow, rendering it less vivid to the human eye.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Solar eclipse 2024: Why red and green are the best colors to wear