COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Central Ohioans will need a special pair of glasses to catch a glimpse of the rare total solar eclipse that will loom over parts of the United States in April.
For the first time since 1806, Ohio will be in the direct path of the April 8 solar eclipse. Meteorologists expect this phenomenon to last for only four minutes and 28 seconds, and it may have some impact on the weather as well. It is possible that the eclipse will last twice as long as the previous eclipse in 2017.
However, isn't it safe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection to view solar energy, according to NASA. Viewing any portion of the Sun through the lens of a camera, binoculars, or telescope without a special-purpose solar filter mounted on the front of the optics will immediately result in serious eye injury.
“You should look through sun-safe glasses, 'eclipse glasses,' or a safe portable solar viewer at all times,” NASA says on its Total Solar Eclipse Safety website. “Eclipse glasses are not ordinary sunglasses; Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the sun.
While NASA does not approve any particular brand of solar viewing device, the agency does recommend that those viewing the eclipse purchase glasses that comply with “International Standard ISO 12312-2.”
This is where Central Ohio residents can get certified solar viewing glasses.
- The association has compiled links to select solar landscape suppliers that Central Ohioans can trust when used properly. These include organizations that have proven their products meet safety requirements, including national retailers including Meijer, Kroger, Walmart, Menards and Lowes.
- The library will offer free eclipse glasses to central Ohio residents starting March 18. The glasses will be distributed at all 23 CML locations while supplies last and will be limited to four per family. Those interested are encouraged to call ahead at 614-645-2275 to check availability.
- The downtown museum at 333 W. Broad St. is now selling. Packages of sunglasses. Packages range from 30 cups for $75 to 1,000 cups for $2,500.
- Stay at one of the participating Dublin hotels and receive free eclipse glasses and access to a VIP viewing event in Dublin city centre.
- The site offers a variety of certified glasses, including a set of five glasses for $17, plastic “Eclipser” glasses for $25, and a solar eclipse viewer card for $5.
- The site has expertly curated a collection of eclipse-related items to help you prepare for the next eclipse. Besides the typical paper eclipse glasses and hand-held glasses, Eclipser glasses are also available in many exotic designs.
- Eclipse glasses will be distributed free of charge to attendees of the viewing party at the John and Annie Glenn Museum in New Concord.
The American Astronomical Society says it's not recommended to search for eclipse glasses on Amazon, eBay, or Temu or buy from any seller offering the lowest price. Before purchasing a solar projector or filter online, they recommend making sure you select the seller on the site and list the seller on the page.
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