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Solar Eclipse 2026 – How to Safely Observe This Spectacular Natural Phenomenon

The rule regarding watching a solar eclipse is to never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye. Fortunately, with proper eye protection, you can safely enjoy one of the most spectacular natural phenomena. This is ensured by the standard SRPS EN ISO 12312-2:2016, Eye and face protection – Sunglasses and related eyewear – Part 2: Filters for direct observation of the sun, which establishes requirements for filters intended for direct observation of the Sun.

When is the Solar Eclipse? A total solar eclipse will occur today, August 12, 2026. The path of totality will cross parts of Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and a very small section of Portugal, while a partial solar eclipse will be visible over a much broader area, including large parts of Europe. For people located within the path of totality, the Moon will briefly completely cover the visible surface of the Sun. Outside this narrow path, observers will see a partial eclipse.

What is a Solar Eclipse? A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, blocking part or all of the Sun from an observer's perspective. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun's visible surface for observers within the path of totality. During a partial solar eclipse, only a portion of the Sun is obscured. As spectacular as the sight may be, looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can severely damage your eyes.

How to Protect Your Eyes During a Solar Eclipse? When observing the Sun during an eclipse, use eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer specifically designed for direct solar viewing. Ordinary sunglasses are not sufficient, no matter how dark they are. Protective solar viewers should comply with SRPS EN ISO 12312-2:2016, which establishes requirements for filters intended for direct observation of the Sun. Homemade filters, smoked glass, photographic film, and other dark materials must not be used as substitutes for proper solar filters. During the partial phases of an eclipse, eye protection must remain in place whenever you look toward the Sun. Even when most of the Sun is covered, the remaining visible portion is bright enough to damage the retina.

What is "Eclipse Blindness"? Looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can cause temporary or permanent eye damage. This is sometimes referred to as "eclipse blindness" and can result from retinal injury caused by exposure to intense solar radiation. The retina contains light-sensitive cells that enable us to see. Overexposure to the Sun can damage these cells, sometimes without causing immediate pain. That is why it is essential to use proper solar viewing equipment and not rely on the fact that the Sun may appear less bright during an eclipse.

Can a Total Solar Eclipse Be Viewed Without Glasses? During a total eclipse, the Sun can be observed without eye protection only during the brief period when the Moon completely covers the Sun. As soon as any part of the bright surface of the Sun becomes visible again, proper eye protection must be worn. If you are outside the path of totality and observing a partial eclipse, you should never look directly at the Sun without proper solar protection.

What Does SRPS EN ISO 12312-2:2016 Specify? SRPS EN ISO 12312-2:2016 applies to products intended for direct observation of the Sun, including solar eclipse viewing glasses and handheld solar viewers. The standard establishes safety requirements and test methods. It also specifies requirements for relevant information to be made available with the product, including:

Solar filters are designed to reduce the amount of visible, ultraviolet, and infrared radiation reaching the eyes to safe levels for direct solar observation.

How to Check If Eclipse Glasses Meet SRPS EN ISO 12312-2:2016 Requirements? Look for a reference to SRPS EN ISO 12312-2:2016 (or the international standard ISO 12312-2:2015) on the product or its packaging, and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions. Before using eclipse glasses or other solar viewing devices, check them for damage. If the filter is scratched, torn, punctured, or otherwise damaged, it should not be used. It is also important to know that the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) develops international standards, but does not certify products. Certification and conformity assessment are carried out independently by third parties.

Do Ordinary Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes During a Solar Eclipse? No. Ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not designed for direct solar viewing and do not provide sufficient protection. Eclipse glasses and solar viewing eyewear differ significantly from everyday sunglasses and are specifically engineered to reduce intense solar radiation to safe viewing levels.

Can Eclipse Glasses Be Used with a Telescope, Binoculars, or Camera? No. Eclipse glasses are designed for direct viewing of the Sun with the naked eye. They should not be used to look through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device. These devices concentrate sunlight and therefore require solar filters specifically designed to be mounted on optical equipment. Never look through an unfiltered camera, telescope, or binoculars while wearing eclipse glasses, as the concentrated solar radiation can damage the filter and cause severe eye injury.

Does ISO Manufacture Solar Eclipse Glasses? No. ISO does not manufacture, certify, or endorse eclipse glasses. ISO develops and adopts international standards. So, when you look up at the sky tonight, remember: an eclipse is a natural phenomenon, but safe observation requires proper protection. Standards are there to help ensure that the event remains a beautiful experience, rather than a risk to your eyesight.