There’s been so much buzz about what to do and what not to do during the solar eclipse on Monday. But the question is, if you want to watch it, where can you find approved solar filters?
Many libraries and science museums across New Jersey will have free glasses on hand. Warby Parker will offer the glasses while supplies last. Beware of any retailers selling fake glasses that look like they should be worn in a 3-D movie theater.
The glasses must meet the ISO 12312-2 International Safety Standard and be approved by NASA in order to be effective. They are thousands of times darker than regular sunglasses.
It’s important to use approved glasses to prevent damage to your eyes. Dr. Premilla Banwait, vice president of Clinical Programs for UnitedHealthcare, said blurry vision or permanent problems can occur if you look at the sky for too long. She said even if you use a camera, telescope or binoculars (make sure they also have an approved solar filter over the front of the optics) with the approved glasses, you shouldn’t look directly at the sun. Damage can occur almost instantly.
The moon’s shadow will cover the sun around approximately 3:30 pm on Monday. In our area, we should experience about 85-90 percent coverage. There are many watch parties planned through NJ, with most offering free glasses for visitors.
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