Beware of Fake Solar Eclipse Glasses
Protect Your Eyes During the Total Solar Eclipse
Don't Use Regular Sunglasses or Other Unsafe Alternatives
The upcoming total solar eclipse in April is an exciting astronomical event. However, it's crucial to ensure that you observe it safely. Using the wrong type of eyewear can lead to permanent eye damage.
Avoid the following unsafe options:
- Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark
- Smoked glass
- Unfiltered telescopes
- Magnifiers
- Polarizing filters
These items do not block out the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted by the sun. Even a brief glimpse of the sun during a solar eclipse can cause a crescent-shaped wound on the retina, resulting in permanent vision loss.
Look for Certified Eclipse Glasses
To protect your eyes, it's essential to use eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standards. These glasses filter out the damaging parts of the solar spectrum.
Check for the following certifications:
- ISO 12312-2
- American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z87.1-2015 compliant
- CE-marked
Inspect Eclipse Glasses Carefully:
- Make sure the glasses have no scratches or cracks.
- The lenses should be a uniform dark grey color.
- They should fit snugly around your eyes.
Test Your Glasses:
- Look at a light bulb through the glasses. The light should appear very dim.
- If you can see a faint glow behind the bulb, discard the glasses.
Remember, protecting your eyes during a solar eclipse is paramount. By following these guidelines and using certified eclipse glasses, you can enjoy this celestial event safely.
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