On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be visible across North America, marking the last one in the continental US for nearly 20 years. It is essential to wear solar eclipse glasses to protect your eyes while viewing the eclipse, whether you are in the path of totality or witnessing a partial eclipse. These glasses block out the most dangerous parts of the solar spectrum and make the sun appear as a yellow-orange circle. Ensure that you only use these glasses for eclipse viewing as they will block out all light, making activities like driving or walking hazardous.
To ensure the legitimacy of your solar eclipse glasses, check the ISO number on them, which should be labeled as ISO 12312-2 to signify that they reduce visible sunlight to safe levels and block UV and IR radiation. There are counterfeit glasses in the market labeled as compliant with ISO 12312-2, so it’s important to verify the credibility of the vendor from whom you purchased the glasses. The American Astronomical Society provides a list of Reputable Vendors of Solar Filters and Viewers, including big-box retailers and online stores like Warby Parker, where free glasses are available. Choosing a vendor from this list eliminates concerns about counterfeit glasses.
In compiling their list, the AAS ensures that manufacturers have the proper ISO rating through lab testing and verifies authorized resellers. If your vendor is on the list, it means your glasses are safe, but the absence of a vendor on the list doesn’t mean they are selling counterfeit products. In such cases, perform an eye test by checking if you can see anything other than the sun through the glasses. Use reflected sunlight or a bright white LED to test the glasses, and if the brightness is comfortably dim, they are legitimate. If the glasses are uncomfortable to use or allow light to pass through, they may not be safe for eclipse viewing.
Ensuring the safety of your eyes during a solar eclipse is crucial, so take the necessary steps to verify the authenticity of your solar eclipse glasses to avoid any risks. The AAS provides guidelines to help you test your glasses for legitimacy, such as checking the darkness of the lenses and ensuring that only bright light is visible through them. By following these guidelines and purchasing from reputable vendors, you can enjoy the total solar eclipse safely without compromising your vision. Remember to use caution and follow safety guidelines to make the most of this rare astronomical event.
