Screening tool · 1 min
Astigmatism Sunburst Self-Test
Sunburst chart to check if some line directions look sharper than others.
What this test measures
Whether light focuses evenly on your retina. With astigmatism, the cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, so certain line directions appear sharper or darker than others.
Why it matters
Uncorrected astigmatism causes eye strain, headaches, blurred vision at all distances and difficulty driving at night. Even small amounts can affect comfort during long screen use.
Who may benefit
Anyone with blurry vision, frequent headaches, or trouble with night-time glare. About 1 in 3 people has some astigmatism. Dr. Roxanna Gangi can confirm with a quick refraction.
Astigmatism is a very common refractive error where the cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a sphere — causing certain line directions to look darker or sharper. This sunburst chart, reviewed by Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist, is a quick clue, not a diagnosis. Confirm and correct it with a comprehensive eye exam or a LASIK/PRK candidacy assessment.
Disclaimer: This online astigmatism sunburst chart is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not diagnose eye disease, measure your prescription, or replace a comprehensive eye examination. Screen brightness, device quality, lighting, viewing distance and concentration can all affect results. If you experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, flashes of light, trauma, or other urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, or book a comprehensive eye exam or professional consultation with Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist.
How to take this test
- If you wear glasses for distance, remove them.
- Sit about 40 cm (16 inches) from the screen.
- Cover one eye and stare at the centre of the chart.
- Do all lines look equally dark and sharp, or do some stand out?
- Repeat with the other eye.
Take the test
Remove distance glasses, cover one eye, and look at the centre of the chart.
Frequently asked questions
Want an expert opinion from anywhere in Ontario?
Online tools are a great starting point, but a one-on-one review with Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist can put your results in context and guide your next steps. Anyone living in Ontario, Canada can book a secure online consultancy — no need to travel to the clinic.