On Saturday, March 29, a rare sunrise solar eclipse will take place, offering a breathtaking view to millions. This partial solar eclipse will be visible from eastern Canada and the northeastern United States, making it an event not to be missed. To catch the stunning sight of the eclipse, set your alarms for Saturday morning between 4:50 a.m. and 8:43 a.m. ET. If you’re among the estimated 800 million people in the viewing area, you’ll want to prepare your viewing gear in advance.
Before witnessing this celestial phenomenon, it's vital to understand why solar eclipse glasses are essential. The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays that can cause severe eye damage, including blindness, if viewed without proper protection. The only safe way to observe a solar eclipse is through specially designed solar filters, commonly referred to as eclipse glasses, or handheld solar viewers. These filters must comply with the safety standards of ISO 12312-2 to ensure your safety while enjoying the eclipse.
Solar eclipse glasses are made from black polymer, a flexible resin infused with carbon particles that can block nearly all visible light, as well as harmful UV and IR rays. This material is approximately 100,000 times darker than regular sunglasses, providing the necessary protection for your eyes during the eclipse.
It’s a common question: Can you watch a solar eclipse through your smartphone or regular glasses? The answer is no. Standard glasses and smartphones do not offer the protection needed to safely view the sun. Using a camera, binoculars, or a telescope without a designated solar filter can lead to immediate and severe eye injuries. However, there are smartphone lens filters available that enable you to safely capture images of the eclipse without risking damage to your device.
When it comes to purchasing solar eclipse glasses, quality and safety are paramount. American Paper Optics is the leading brand in this market. Ensure that any pair you buy has proper labeling on the inside, including wearing instructions and ISO certification. As emphasized by The Weather Channel’s meteorologist Danielle Banks, it’s crucial to purchase glasses from reputable sources to avoid any risks to your eyesight.
If you're looking to buy solar eclipse glasses or camera lens options, several reputable options are available:
Available on Amazon, these glasses are made by NASA-approved manufacturer American Paper Optics. They are CE and ISO certified for direct sun viewing, ensuring your safety during the eclipse. Features include:
Scratch-resistant silver polymer lens materialAlso on Amazon for just $9.99, this 10-pack includes non-polarized solar eclipse glasses and a bonus smartphone photo filter. They are CE and ISO certified, making them a great choice for eclipse viewing.
Available at B&H Photo for $18.95, these glasses are ISO 12312-2 certified. They block 100% of harmful UV and IR light and 99.999% of intense visible light, providing maximum protection during the eclipse.
Starting at $2.71 on Amazon, this lens is designed for capturing images of the sun while protecting your smartphone or camera lens. Please note that it is not intended for direct sun viewing.
As we approach this exciting astronomical event, ensure you have the right gear to safely enjoy the rare sunrise solar eclipse. Prepare ahead of time, choose certified products, and get ready to witness this spectacular celestial show!
