Use special glasses to watch the solar eclipse safely

As millions of Americans gear up for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, their most important gear might be their eyewear.

Except during the minutes-long totality phase of a total solar eclipse — when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun — it's not safe to look directly at the latter without specialized eye protection. Doing so before or after totality — or viewing a partial eclipse at any time without proper eye protection — can result in permanent damage, including blurred and altered vision.

In Illinois, the path of totality will cross the far-southern part of the state. The rest of Illinois will experience a partial solar eclipse.

Why do I need eclipse glasses?

Eye damage from watching an eclipse occurs because a person's natural response to squint or look away from the sun's brightness does not get triggered. Instead, the moon's shadow allows people to stare at the sun longer without experiencing that intense glare. The highenergy rays cast down during that time are akin to a laser pinpointing at the eye, reports USA Today.

Which types of eclipse glasses are needed?

Approved eclipse glasses are designed to block out most light and let you safely see the moon pass in front of the sun. The technical standard is called ISO 12312-2, named after a translation of the International Organization for Standardization. The American Astronomical Society publishes a list of suppliers of approved glasses that meet the ISO standard. It also offers tips on how to spot fake/unsafe eclipse glasses and how to view a solar eclipse safely.

Does NASA approve glasses?

Consumers should avoid products from any source claiming to be selling protective eyewear approved by NASA. The space agency does not endorse any sort of merchandise.

Where can I find approved eclipse glasses in Illinois?

The American Astronomical Society has compiled a list of retail chains offering ISO-compliant safe eclipse glasses. It says consumers can confidently buy them if they find them in their stores — but not necessarily on their websites, as some chains use different suppliers for their websites than they do for their stores:

● Meijer

● Kroger

● H-E-B

● Wegmans

● 7 Eleven

● Cracker Barrel

● Lowe's

● Buc-ee's

● Warby Parker (available in stores for free, while supplies last, limit two per person)

● Walmart

● Staples

● Menards

Where can I find eclipse glasses around Peoria?

In addition to some of the retailers listed above, eclipse glasses are available at the following Peoria-area locations:

Peoria Riverfront Museum

The Peoria Riverfront Museum is selling eclipse glasses. They are available at the museum's store. A representative said the glasses are available for $4.

Fondulac District Library

According to a Facebook post, Fondulac District Library in East Peoria is giving away free eclipse glasses. They can be picked up from any of the library's information desks, the post states.

Chillicothe Public Library

The library plans to provide special eclipse glasses while supplies last for people to view the event from wherever they are.