As anticipation grows for the annular solar eclipse on 2nd October 2024, Eclipse Optics is committed to helping observers safely enjoy this celestial event.
Eclipse Optics, a leading provider of ISO-compliant eclipse glasses, emphasises the importance of adhering to the ISO 12312-2:2015 standard, which ensures the safety and effectiveness of its products, as well as other approved eclipse glasses.
ISO 12312-2:2015, established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), sets the safety requirements for directly viewing the sun, specifically designed for those wishing to observe solar eclipses or sunspots. This standard includes key safety measures such as optical density, transmission of solar radiation, and the filter specifications required for direct solar observation eyewear.
All of Eclipse Optics’ glasses are rigorously tested and certified to meet ISO 12312-2:2015 standards. This guarantees that the glasses reduce solar brightness (luminosity) to safe levels, block dangerous ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, and protect users’ eyes while allowing a clear view of the eclipse.
As the 2nd October annular eclipse approaches, it is crucial for all eclipse watchers to use ISO-certified eclipse glasses. Non-certified products can lead to serious eye injuries, such as solar retinopathy, caused by insufficient protection from both visible and invisible solar radiation. While this condition is not life-threatening, it can result in permanent damage to vision, such as blotches or blind spots.
The eclipse glasses market is further complicated by the fact that some online sellers falsely claim ISO certification for their products. True ISO compliance results should be publicly available, and testing must be done in a certified US lab.
These test results should also show detailed, quantitative measurements for luminosity, UV, and IR performance, providing exact performance data. Consumers should avoid glasses labelled simply with “pass” or “fail” as they do not indicate whether the glasses fall at the upper or lower end of the safety threshold.
Eclipse Optics also recommends checking the American Astronomical Society (AAS) list of approved vendors. Vendors listed by AAS have passed their stringent safety requirements, and consumers should be cautious when buying from sellers not included on this list.
Eclipse Optics is proud to produce products that meet the highest safety standards and encourages schools, astronomy enthusiasts, and the general public to secure their ISO 12312-2:2015-compliant glasses ahead of time.
In May 2024, Eclipse Optics, previously known as Eclipse Glasses USA, donated 2,000 pairs of ISO-certified eclipse glasses to the University of Hawaii in preparation for the 2nd October eclipse.
