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An out of this world phenomenon is set to occur in 2024: a total solar eclipse. Whether you’re a fan of the stars or just enjoy being outdoors, this major planetary event will be occurring on Monday (April 8) and will be visible across certain parts of the United States, Mexico and Canada. Before you head outside with just any pair of sunglasses, you’ll want to make sure you’re properly prepared with solar eclipse glasses to safely witness the extraordinary view.
A total solar eclipse happens every 18 months, which means after this year, it’ll be over a year until the next one takes place. To make sure you get a clear view, Billboard Shopping did the digging to find some of the best solar eclipse glasses as well as where you can find the best view.
When & Where Will the Total Solar Eclipse 2024 Occur?
NASA states that the first location that will be able to see the 2024 total solar eclipse in totality is Mexico’s Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT. It will then enter the U.S. starting in Texas, and will move through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Canada will then be able to catch a glimpse in Southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. That’s when the total solar eclipse will exit North America on the Atlantic Coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at around 5:16 p.m. NDT.
During a total solar eclipse, the moon passes between the sun and Earth, until it’s completely blocking the face of the sun. If you’re in one of the locations listed, you’ll be able to view what’s known as the “path of totality” (when the moon’s shadow completely covers the sun), giving the appearance of dawn or dusk as well as a view of the sun’s corona. That means looking at the sky without proper protection can do some serious damage to your eyes.
That’s why NASA recommends wearing proper eye protection. You’ll know if a pair of solar eclipse glasses are NASA-approved if they have ISO certification — meaning the glasses meet the proper requirements that’ll keep your eyes safe and protected while you look at the eclipse.
What Are the Best Solar Eclipse Glasses?
Not sure where to find solar eclipse glasses? We found a few pairs that are ISO-certified (including a couple on Amazon that are eligible for Prime one-day free shipping). Not a Prime member? Click here to launch your 30-day free trial.
2-PACK PICK
Soluna Solar Eclipse Glasses (2 Pack)
This two-pack comes with darkened lenses and a paper material that’ll adapt to your face shape. More than 100,000 have been purchased in the past month, according to the online retailer and its also labeled as an Amazon Choice for safety goggles and glasses by Soluna.
Note: Before slipping these on, make sure to check the lenses to ensure there are no scratches or defects. If so, do not use, as it will not provide your eyes proper protection.
SUNGLASSES PICK
Celestron – EclipsSmart 3-Piece Solar Eclipse Observing and Imaging Kit
Prefer something not made out of paper? These plastic eye glasses meet ISO certifications as well as include a disk to put over your camera for added protection. You can also use the included guide to learn how to view an eclipse best.
12-PACK PICK
Helioclipse Solar Eclipse Glasses (12-Pack)
If you’re viewing with more than one person, you can pick up a 12-pack of these solar eclipse glasses. They also meet ISO certifications and come with a bendable material to adapt to your face shape. As an added bonus, the 12-pack is currently 73% off marking them down to less than $10.
ADULT PACK PICK
SEIC Solar Eclipse Glasses (6-Pack)
For something more durable, Amazon shoppers prefer this pack of solar eclipse glasses. The plastic frame design makes them sturdy and less susceptible to ripping (unlike a paper design). More than 20,000 have been purchased in the past month, according to Amazon and the design is considered ISO-compliant by the American Astronomical Society.
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best shackets for women, shoes for travel and sunglasses under $25.
