As the eagerly anticipated total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024, draws near, the demand for eclipse glasses is skyrocketing. While some might rush to purchase these essential viewing aids, it’s worth noting that free options are available for those looking to save money without sacrificing safety. Here are key points to consider and where you can find complimentary eclipse glasses:
Before You Start: Not everyone will need to buy eclipse glasses. Despite a likely shortage, and with prices possibly increasing as the date approaches, remember that these glasses typically cost around $3 each. To save, consider buying a pack and sharing with your group, as you’ll only need brief glances at the eclipse, not continuous viewing.
Safety First: Ensure any glasses, whether free or purchased, meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard. Inspect them for any damage before use, as advised by Jeff Todd, President and CEO of Prevent Blindness. Securing your glasses early is recommended due to limited supplies.
Where to Find Free Eclipse Glasses:
- Warby Parker: All 223 U.S. stores are distributing free, ISO-certified glasses from April 1 until the eclipse, while supplies last.
- Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty: Starting April 6, select rental locations in Texas, Indiana, Ohio, and New York will offer free glasses to customers.
- New York State: Limited edition “I LOVE NY” glasses are available at state Welcome Centers and some Thruway Rest Stops, two per person.
- Buffalo Museum of Science and White River State Park, Indianapolis: Offering significant quantities of glasses for spring break and during the LUNACY! Solar Eclipse Festival.
- Austin, Texas: 20,000 pairs distributed through public libraries and the Central Library from April 4.
Retailers and Entities Offering Free Glasses:
- MyEyeDr.: At over 430 locations nationwide, offering a free pair per person.
- Perfect Snacks: With each online order of their new Chocolate Brownie bar.
- Smoothie King: A pair of glasses comes with each Eclipse Berry Blitz drink purchase from March 27 to April 8.
- Sonic Drive-In: A themed Blackout Slush Float includes a free pair of glasses.
- MoonPie: A Solar Eclipse Survival Kit available online, at Dollar Tree, and select Walmart locations, includes glasses.
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What is a solar eclipse?
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is near its apogee, the farthest point in its orbit from the Earth. In this position, the Moon appears smaller in the sky than the Sun. As a result, when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, it does not completely cover the solar disk, leaving a bright “ring of fire” visible.
Where is the next total solar eclipse visible?
The total eclipse will be visible in a 160-kilometer-wide strip that begins in Mexico, crosses the United States from west to east, and ends in Canada.
In Mexico, the totality of the eclipse can be seen in the following states: Sinaloa, Durango, Nuevo León, and Coahuila.
In the United States, the path of the eclipse will pass through the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
In Canada, the total eclipse can be seen in the provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
