Are solar eclipse glasses selling out?

Update: With less that two weeks to go before the April 8 total solar eclipse crosses North America, certified solar eclipses glasses are beginning to sell out. But it's not too late! Many vendors on the AAS' list of approved solar eclipse glasses vendors still have glasses in stock, with guaranteed shipping before the big event.

Are eclipse glasses legit?

Companies that sell legitimate eclipse glasses will do this and then earn the right to state the certification—which should be printed on the glasses themselves. “These glasses are mass-produced, so you want to make sure when you get these, you check for imperfections,” Youssefzadeh says.

Are eclipse glasses fake?

There are plenty of eclipse glasses available for free or sale in person and online, but experts are urging people to source glasses carefully and beware of fakes. Rick Fienberg, project manager of the AAS Solar Eclipse Task Force, says counterfeit eclipse glasses began appearing on the market just before the 2017 solar eclipse.

Where can I buy fake solar-viewing glasses?

Ebay, Amazon, and other major retailers often see an uptick in counterfeit solar-viewing glasses from third-party sellers in the days leading up to an eclipse. You can find a list of reputable manufacturers at the American Astronomical Society’s website.

Are eclipse glasses counterfeit?

While you can pick up eclipse glasses in any number of places right now, the American Astronomical Society (or AAS) recently pointed out that several options on the market are counterfeit and thus unsafe. Rick Fienberg, the project manager of the AAS Solar Eclipse Task Force and a veteran of 14 total solar eclipses, offered some caution.

When should you buy certified solar eclipse glasses?

With less than two weeks before the April 8 total solar eclipse in North America, it's time to get your certified solar eclipse glasses before they sell out. Just make sure you're buying from an approved vendor. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.