If you are one of the millions of people who will be watching the 2019 total solar eclipse, then hopefully you have heard about the importance of eye protection. Every person watching the total or partial eclipse will need a pair of eclipse glasses.
Eclipse Glasses
Whether you are looking to purchase a new pair of eclipse glasses or you already have a pair, you should make sure the glasses meet the minimum standard for eclipse viewing.
Certified eclipse glasses must pass the International Organization for Standardization. However, since the Great American Eclipse, many counterfeit glasses flooded the market. To help educate consumers on fake eclipse glasses, the American Astronomical Society (AAS) has certified certain retailers that sell eclipse glasses. They publish a list of vendors and manufacturers of eclipse glasses, so buyers know their eclipse glasses meet the standard.
If you already have a pair of eclipse glasses then make sure they are not damaged. Wearing damaged eclipse glasses can be just as dangerous as wearing no eclipse glasses.
Wearing certified eclipse glasses is the only way to safely view a solar eclipse and protect the eyes from potential sun damage.
No Sunglasses
Eclipse glasses and sunglasses may look alike, but they are not the same. Sunglasses do not protect the eyes from the Sun’s harmful effects. Eclipse glasses are specifically designed to protect the eyes by using black polymer flexible lenses which will reduce visible light to levels which are safe for the eyes.
Eclipse Watching
Once you have your solar glasses, you can safely watch the total solar eclipse while wearing your eclipse glasses. During totality, when the Moon completely covers the Sun, eclipse watchers can remove the eclipse glasses.
A total solar eclipse is a spectacular phenomenon that should not be missed. If you can, get to the path of totality to experience an awe-inspiring event.
