Fact Check: Are eclipse glasses safe?

Are Eclipse Glasses Safe?

The safety of eclipse glasses has become a topic of discussion, especially with upcoming solar eclipses, including the annular solar eclipse on October 14, 2023, and the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. The claim at hand revolves around whether these glasses are indeed safe for viewing solar eclipses and what guidelines should be followed to ensure eye safety.

What We Know

1. Eclipse Glasses Standards: Eclipse glasses must meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard to be considered safe for solar viewing. Regular sunglasses, regardless of darkness, do not provide adequate protection against harmful solar radiation 79.

2. Usage Guidelines: It is crucial to use eclipse glasses whenever looking directly at the Sun, except during the brief totality phase of a total solar eclipse when the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon. For annular and partial eclipses, the use of eclipse glasses is mandatory 16.

3. Inspection Before Use: Users are advised to inspect their eclipse glasses for any damage, such as scratches or punctures, before use. If any damage is found, the glasses should be discarded 59.

4. Types of Solar Filters: Different types of solar filters are required for various viewing methods. For instance, eclipse glasses are not suitable for use with cameras, binoculars, or telescopes, which require specialized solar filters 46.

5. Recommendations from Credible Sources: NASA and the American Astronomical Society (AAS) provide extensive guidelines on how to safely view solar eclipses, emphasizing the importance of using certified eclipse glasses 28.

Analysis

The evidence regarding the safety of eclipse glasses is largely supported by reputable organizations such as NASA and the AAS.

• NASA: As a leading authority on space and astronomical phenomena, NASA provides detailed safety guidelines and emphasizes the importance of using ISO-certified glasses. Their resources are credible due to their scientific foundation and lack of commercial bias 126.

• American Astronomical Society (AAS): The AAS also offers guidelines on eye safety during solar eclipses, reinforcing the need for proper solar viewing equipment. Their focus on public education and safety lends credibility to their recommendations 8.

However, some sources, such as Eclipse Glasses USA, while providing safety guidelines, may have a potential conflict of interest as they are involved in selling eclipse glasses. Their recommendations should be taken with caution, ensuring that the glasses they promote meet the necessary safety standards 9.

The methodology behind the claims regarding the safety of eclipse glasses is generally sound, as it is based on established safety standards and scientific consensus. However, the lack of independent testing data for specific brands of eclipse glasses can make it difficult for consumers to ascertain the safety of their purchased products.

What Additional Information Would Be Helpful

• Independent Testing Reports: Access to independent testing results for various brands of eclipse glasses would enhance consumer confidence in their safety.

• Consumer Reviews: Aggregated consumer feedback on the performance and safety of different eclipse glasses could provide practical insights.

• Manufacturer Transparency: More information from manufacturers about their compliance with safety standards and quality control processes would be beneficial.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence supports the conclusion that eclipse glasses, when they meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard and are used according to established guidelines, are safe for viewing solar eclipses. Key evidence includes the endorsement of safety standards by reputable organizations such as NASA and the American Astronomical Society, which emphasize the necessity of using certified glasses and proper viewing techniques.

However, it is important to note that while the general consensus on the safety of ISO-certified eclipse glasses is strong, there are limitations in the available evidence. Specifically, the lack of independent testing data for various brands means that consumers may still face uncertainty regarding the safety of specific products. Additionally, potential conflicts of interest from some sources that sell eclipse glasses should be considered when evaluating safety claims.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and ensure they are using glasses that meet the necessary safety standards to protect their eyesight during solar eclipses.

Sources

1. Eclipse Safety - Science@NASA. https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/safety/
2. NASA SVS | Find Out if Your Eclipse Glasses Are Safe. https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/14395
3. PDF Final_NASA HEAT Eclipse Glasses Safety Activity. https://science.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nasa-heat-eclipse-glasses-safety-activity.pdf
4. Total Solar Eclipse Safety. https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/safety/
5. SOLAR ECLIPSE. https://nsf-gov-resources.nsf.gov/2023-10/2023_Eclipse_Factsheet.pdf
6. NASA SVS | Eclipse Safety B-Roll 2023. https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/14453
7. Annular Eclipse Safety - Science@NASA. https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2023/safety/
8. Eye Safety / How to View a Solar Eclipse Safely. https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety
9. Eclipse Glasses USA Provides Safety Guidelines for October 2023 Eclipse. https://eclipse23.com/blogs/eclipse-education/eclipse-glasses-usa-provides-safety-guidelines-for-viewing-the-october-2023-and-april-2024-eclipses
10. Solar Eclipses and Eye Safety. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/solar-eclipses