"Eclipse 101" -- safety and viewing info from NASA

[pnwmom]

https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/safety

Safety
Eclipse Eyeglass Safety: Don’t be Blindsided!
Plan ahead to decide if you’re going to make use of an indirect viewing method – more information below – or to watch the eclipse directly by using eclipse glasses. If the latter, please check the safety authenticity of viewing glasses to ensure they meet basic proper safety viewing standards.

Eclipse viewing glasses and handheld solar viewers should meet all the following criteria:
Have certification information with a designated ISO 12312-2 international standard
Have the manufacturer’s name and address printed somewhere on the product
Not be used if they are older than three years, or have scratched or wrinkled lenses
Not use homemade filters or be substituted for with ordinary sunglasses -- not even very dark ones -- because they are not safe for looking directly at the Sun

Our partner the American Astronomical Society has verified that these five manufacturers are making eclipse glasses and handheld solar viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 international standard for such products: American Paper Optics, Baader Planetarium (AstroSolar Silver/Gold film only), Rainbow Symphony, Thousand Oaks Optical, and TSE 17.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

SNIP

[dalton99a]

1. And don't buy fake eclipse glasses