You can already shop deals on eclipse glasses — just make sure they’re the right ones
Whether you meticulously scan the night sky for constellations or look up occasionally to see if you can catch a shooting star, a total solar eclipse is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s a rare event that finds the moon passing between Earth and our sun, which makes for a dynamite viewing experience, whether you’re a casual observer or an aspiring astronomer.
The highly-anticipated celestial event, which is estimated to reach three to four minutes of totality where the moon has completely blocked out the sun, is set to occur on April 8, 2024. And while that’s still weeks away, it’s crucial that you prepare for safe viewing if you plan on stepping outside and taking it in in all its awe-inspiring glory.
That means buying a pair of eclipse glasses that can make the experience safe, so you don’t end up injuring your eyes permanently.
This eclipse is going to be a very big deal, and if you plan on checking it out, eclipse glasses are an absolute must-have. But even though there are a wide variety of glasses available on Amazon from a variety of sellers, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. You shouldn’t head to Amazon and buy the first pair of eclipse glasses you see.
Mashable Science Editor Mark Kaufman explains why this is important, but if you don’t have time to sift through the list of approved eclipse glasses from sellers vetted by the American Astronomical Society (AAS), we’re here to do it for you.
Everything featured here is available on Amazon, meets the standards set forth by the AAS, and is listed by an approved seller.
Below, check out our picks for some of the best eclipse glasses you can buy now, on sale or otherwise. (Note: All deals live as of the time of writing. We’ll make our best effort to keep updating this story as inventory moves around.)
Our top pick: Celestron EclipSmart Deluxe Solar Observing & Imaging Kit
The Celestron EclipSmart Deluxe Solar Observing & Imaging Kit is one of your best bets available on Amazon right now, and it’s available at a slight discount. Made by the same company that manufactures and distributes telescopes, microscopes, and other viewing equipment, this might be the best option for both newbies and veteran eclipse viewers alike.
Unlike most eclipse glasses, which are little more than cardboard and other light materials, this kit provides you with premium, hard-frame wraparound glasses that you can pack up and use again and again. They also come with a special photo filter with technology that allows you to take video and photos of the eclipse with your phone or camera. There’s also a special booklet included filled with information about eclipses and other celestial events should you want to learn more.
Other eclipse glasses on sale:
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Medical King Solar Eclipse Glasses (10 Pack) — $ 7.99
$ 11.99at Amazon (save $ 4) -
Healthoholic Solar Eclipse Glasses (2 Pack) — $ 6.99
$ 9.99at Amazon (save $ 3) -
GottaHaveIt Solar Eclipse Glasses (5 Pack) — $ 7.99
$ 10.99at Amazon (save $ 3) -
SEIC Solar Eclipse Glasses (3 Pack) — $ 21.99
$ 27.99at Amazon (save $ 6) -
Helioclipse Solar Eclipse Glasses (12 Pack)— $ 21.95
$ 24.95at Amazon (save $ 3)
More eclipse glasses available at full price:
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Soluna Solar Eclipse Glasses — $ 13.99 at Amazon
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Lunt Solar Systems Premium Solar Eclipse Glasses (10 Pack) — $ 19.95 at Amazon
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American Paper Optics Solar Eclipse Glasses (4 Pack) — $ 13.89 at Amazon
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Gravitis Solar Eclipse Glasses (2 Pack) — $ 4.99 at Amazon
