[rellic]

The photons start as gama particles and it takes a much longer time to get out.
I point to people who care to this source.

https://sciencing.com/long-photons-emerge-suns-core-outside-10063.html

Depending on your assumptions 1 million to as little as 5 thousand years before the photon starts that 8 minute plus part of the journey, from the Suns surface to you.

[jmacusa]

I was going on information from a documentary on the Sun and other sources. Astronomy is a hobby of mine. Alas, I'm merely an amateur. I do happen to live in a convenient area though. The Atlantic Ocean is about eight miles due east of my back door so I'm not bothered by light pollution.

The views on most nights, especially during the new moon phase are fantastic.

I have a six inch Newtonian refractor scope.