Looking at stars through a telescope does not typically damage your eyes because stars are extremely far away and emit relatively little light compared to nearby objects like the Sun. The light that reaches your eyes from stars is much weaker and less intense than the light from everyday sources.
Telescopes are designed to collect and focus light, allowing us to see distant celestial objects with greater clarity. They use lenses or mirrors to gather and concentrate the light, making the objects appear brighter and more detailed. However, even with this increased brightness, the amount of light reaching your eyes is still relatively low.
In contrast, looking at the Sun directly, even for a short period, can cause serious and permanent damage to your eyes. The Sun emits an intense amount of light, including harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. Staring at the Sun without proper protection, such as solar filters or eclipse glasses, can lead to solar retinopathy, a condition where the Sun's focused light damages the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
It's important to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines when using telescopes or viewing astronomical events. Avoid pointing the telescope directly at the Sun without appropriate filters, and never look at the Sun through a telescope or binoculars unless you have the proper solar filters in place. Always prioritize eye safety and refer to reputable sources for specific instructions on using telescopes and observing celestial objects safely.