Just like in 2017, as we approach the 2024 total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024 we are seeing a ton of Chinese made, fake solar eclipse glasses flooding the market. This time around the phrase they are using to trick people is “NASA Approved. Let’s set the record straight here, NASA is not an approval body for solar eclipse viewing glasses. What matters is the ISO certification and to verify they were made in the USA.
How do you know if your eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers are safe? You need to know that they meet the ISO 12312-2 (sometimes written as ISO 12312-2:2015) international safety standard. Filters that are ISO 12312-2 compliant not only reduce visible sunlight to safe and comfortable levels but also block all but a fraction of solar UV and IR radiation. If they are not ISO certified, or do not carry the ISO certification printed on the glasses themselves, throw them in the trash and do not use them.
Fake solar eclipse glasses are a huge problem, and have been reported on by various news outlets:
- Beware Fake Solar Eclipse Glasses
- Don’t Fall for Phony Eclipse Glasses
- Upcoming Solar Eclipse Prompts Experts to Issue Safety Warning
To get prepared for the upcoming total eclipse, check your glasses now. You should verify that the glasses carry the ISO certification, were made in the USA, and are free from any scratches or tears in the lenses. Damaged or fake glasses should be destroyed. Wearing the wrong glasses and looking at the sun for mere seconds can cause irreversible eye damage.
Another great resource for helping you verify that your glasses are safe is the American Astronomical Society which produces a list of verified retailers of glasses. If you don’t see the organization you want to buy glasses from on the list, shop elsewhere! You’ll find us on the list under SolarEclipse.US.
Our solar eclipse viewers are made 100% in the USA and are ISO 12312-2:2015 certified. If you have any questions, we welcome you to contact us directly and we’ll help you discover if the ones you have are safe or not.