MEXICO, Mo. — Eclipse glasses, we all know they're necessary to view the eclipse, but how can we tell if they're safe?
Stormtracker 16 Meteorologist Jeremy Lewan asked Dr. Rick Fienberg, the head of the American Astronomical Society's Solar Eclipse Task Force, who individually vetted each eclipse glasses manufacturer for the official list.
"To check your glasses, first check the inside arm for an ISO certification. Step two: if it has the marking, look for the manufacturer's name and search the AAS listing to ensure it has been vetted," said Dr. Fienberg.
As of this past week, Amazon is sending notices and providing refunds to customers who purchased glasses from sellers who did not appear on Dr. Fienberg's list.
"No, you can't just use your regular sunglasses for the eclipse. You have to use ISO-certified eclipse glasses, which only allow one-one millionth of the light from the sun to come through. That's what's safe for your eyes. Otherwise, you could cause permanent damage, including blindness," explained Dr. Fienberg.
Some ask about the safety of wearing welding glasses and helmets to view the eclipse. Most of those sold in hardware stores aren't dark enough; they must have a shade 12 filter or higher to be safe for your eyes.
If you kept your glasses from a previous eclipse, inspect them for any scratches or folds that could allow for more light to get through before using them on Monday.
Remember, eclipse glasses must be worn at all times, unless the moon is completely covering the sun!
To view the full list of eclipse glasses vetted by Dr. Fienberg, click here.