ECLIPSE GLASSES
About the Glasses
The Space Science Institute/STAR Net Library Network (STAR Net) is a hands-on learning network for libraries and their communities across the country. They supply free solar eclipse viewing glasses to libraries across the US while supplies last.
Public Safety
- Never look directly at the sun during an eclipse! Always use eclipse glasses or other kinds of viewers.
- Glasses must comply with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard for direct viewing of the Sun.
- Watch for fakes! Counterfeit glasses will be sold as eclipse day approaches. Real eclipse glasses block out all light, except the direct Sun.
- Sunglasses are not sufficient eye protection.
- Binoculars and cameras need their own solar eclipse filters for viewing the eclipse; wearing eclipse glasses while looking through these devices without a filter can damage the technology, and burn a hole through the glasses and onto your skin.
- Only once totality hits at 3:23:03 pm - 3:24:30 pm, can one safely look at the sun without eclipse glasses, and photograph the sun safely without filters.
What do the experts recommend for those seeing their first solar eclipse?
- Bring solar-viewing glasses, and/ or supplies for other safe viewing techniques.
- Expect a big crowd and prepare for it.
- Go to the bathroom before leaving home.
- Know where the nearest bathroom is at your viewing site.
- Bring drinks and snacks.
- Don’t neglect sunscreen, hats, and regular sunglasses.
- For young kids, bring something to keep them occupied while waiting.
- Bring a folding chair and a sun umbrella.