The upcoming Eclipse has everyone excited and thousands are planning on traveling to cities along the 'Zero' line in order to get a glimpse of this once in a lifetime event for most.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) issued a warning to everyone along the path of the Solar Eclipse that is crossing the country on Monday, August 21st, 2017.

Safety is paramount when preparing to view an eclipse, a rare event that has the potential to damage your eyes if proper protections are not followed.

NASA and it's partner the American Astronomical Society have certified five manufacturers of eclipse viewing glasses and hand held solar viewers.  Eclipse viewers should be sure their glasses meet the ISC 12312-2 standard.  If not, NASA recommends you discard them to avoid possibly damaging your eyes.

The five companies certified in the US to manufacture and distribute eclipse glasses are - American Paper Optics, Baader Planetarium (AstroSolar Silver/Gold film only), Rainbow Symphony, Thousand Oaks Optical and TSE 17.

NASA Warns Eclipse Viewers using glasses or hand held solar viewers that their device should meet all of the following criteria:

  • Have Certification information with a designated ISO 12312-2 international standard.
  • Have the manufacturer's name and address printed somewhere on the product.
  • NOT be used if they are older than three years, or have scratched or wrinkled lenses.
  • NOT use homemade filters or be substituted with ordinary sunglasses, even dark ones, because they are not safe for looking directly at the sun.

Prior to the eclipse viewers should inspect their viewing devices prior to each use.  If you're glasses or devise are damaged or scratched or doesn't display ISO information, it is recommended you discard them.

For additional information and for alternative viewing devices - Click Here.

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