COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Those in central Ohio will need a special pair of glasses to get a glimpse of the rare total solar eclipse that will loom over portions of the U.S. in April.
Marking the first time since 1806, Ohio will be in the direct path of the solar eclipse on April 8. Forecasters predict the phenomenon will last for just up to four minutes and 28 seconds, and could have some impact on weather as well. The eclipse could last twice as long as the previous eclipse in 2017.
However, is it not safe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing, according to NASA. Viewing any part of the sun through a camera lens, binoculars or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause a severe eye injury.
“You must look through safe solar viewing glasses, ‘eclipse glasses,’ or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times,” NASA states on its “Total Solar Eclipse Safety” site. “Eclipse glasses are not regular sunglasses; regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the sun.”
While NASA does not approve any particular brand of solar viewers, the agency does recommend those watching the eclipse purchase glasses that comply with the “ISO 12312-2 international standard.”
Here’s where central Ohioans can get their hands on the approved solar viewing spectacles.
American Astronomical Society
- The society has collected links to selected suppliers of solar views that central Ohioans can be confident are when used properly. These include organizations that have demonstrated that their products meet the safety requirements, including local retailers include Meijer, Kroger, Walmart, Menards and Lowes.
Columbus Metropolitan Library
- The library will offer central Ohioans free eclipse glasses beginning on March 18. Glasses will be given out 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.
COSI
- The downtown museum at 333 W. Broad St. is now selling packs of the solar viewing glasses. Bundles range from 30 glasses for $75 to a 1,000 glasses for $2,500.
Dublin ‘In The Dark’
- Stay at a participating Dublin hotel and receive free eclipse glasses and access to the VIP viewing event in downtown Dublin.
GreatAmericanEclipse.com
- The site is offering a variety of glasses that have been certified, include a pack of five glasses of $17, “Eclipser” plastic eclipse glasses for $25 and a card solar eclipse viewer for $5.
NationalEclipse.com
- The site has expertly curated a collection of eclipse-related items to help you prepare for your next eclipse. Along with typical paper eclipse glasses and hand-held viewers, Eclipser glasses are also available in several wacky designs.
Ohio History Connection
- Free eclipse glasses will be distributed to those attending the viewing party at the John and Annie Glenn Museum in New Concord.
It is not recommended to search for eclipse glasses on Amazon, eBay, Temu, or buying from whichever vendor offers the lowest price, the American Astronomical Society says. Before you buy a solar viewer or filter online, they recommend that you make sure that the seller is identified on the site and the seller is listed on the page.