Your Sight
Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

Solar Eclipse Eye Safety

How to Use Eclipse Glasses

How to Use Solar Eclipse Glasses

Never look directly at the sun during a solar eclipse (except during the very brief time the sun is in total eclipse; and even then, with caution). 

It is never safe to look at a partial solar eclipse without proper safety equipment or techniques. During the very brief time the sun is in total solar eclipse it is safe to look at it, but do so with caution. Even during the total solar eclipse, the total eclipse may last only a short period of time, and if you are looking towards the sun as the moon moves away from blocking the sun, you might get a solar burn on your retina which can cause permanent damage to your eyes.

how to wear solar eclipse glassesSolar Eclipse Glasses

5 Tips for Wearing Solar Eclipse Glasses

1. Check for safety standards

Make sure glasses meet safety requirements and are manufactured with the ISO 12312-2 standard. Look for ISO standard labeling on eclipse glasses and purchase them from a trusted source.

2. Wear your solar eclipse glasses at all times

Wear your solar eclipse glasses at all times when watching an annular or partial solar eclipse. If you use prescription glasses, wear your eclipse glasses over your prescription eyewear.

3. Use caution in the path of totality

Wear your solar eclipse glasses except during the brief time of darkness when the sun is completely covered by the moon.

4. Check the fit

Disposable eclipse glasses are designed to fit both children and adults, but check the fit before putting on eclipse glasses or providing them to a child.

5. Check for damage

Check your solar eclipse glasses for damage before using them.  If the lenses of your solar eclipse glasses appear torn or scratched, they are not safe to use.

Find out more!

  • solar eclipse facts
  • eye safety
  • upcoming eclipses

Prevent Blindness has partnered with companies for the manufacture and sale of Prevent Blindness solar eclipse viewing glasses that meet the safety requirements of ISO 12312-2 filters for direct observation of the sun.

Prevent Blindness Solar Eclipse Glasses

Purchase your solar eclipse glasses direct from our online retail partner:

WebEyecare

Purchase on Amazon.com

For Educators

Purchase solar eclipse glasses for your school or classroom:

School Health

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For more information about selling Prevent Blindness eclipse glasses or becoming an Eclipse + Your Eyes sponsor, please contact us at [email protected].

Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness touches the lives of millions of people each year through public and professional education, advocacy, certified vision screening and training, community and patient service programs and research.

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