Updated

Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 13

Experts Urge Reusing Eclipse Glasses for 2027 Event as Household Recycling Excludes Lenses

Updated

Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 13

Experts Urge Reusing Eclipse Glasses for 2027 Event as Household Recycling Excludes Lenses

Q: Could your eclipse glasses survive until 2027—and how do you know they are still safe to use?

Yes—many eclipse glasses could still be safe in 2027, but only if they are certified and remain in perfect condition. Experts say eclipse viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard do not simply “expire” with time. If the filters are intact, the protective coating has not degraded, and the glasses have been stored properly, they can usually be reused for the 2 August 2027 total solar eclipse or the UK’s partial eclipse in January 2028. The main caution is with older pairs, especially those made before about 2015 or more than 10 years old, which may be less reliable. To judge whether a pair is still safe, check that it is clearly marked ISO 12312-2 and ideally includes the manufacturer’s name. Then inspect both filters carefully. Do not use them if there are scratches, pinholes, tears, punctures, warping, bent frames, loose or detached filters, or any sign the film is peeling or damaged. A common check is to hold them up to a bright indoor light: if you can see pinpricks or obvious light leaks, discard them. Storage matters. Keep the glasses at room temperature, ideally in their original sleeve or an envelope, where they will not be bent, crushed or exposed to heat and humidity. Do not clean the filters with water or wet wipes, which can damage coatings. If there is any doubt, experts advise not risking your eyesight. Ordinary sunglasses are not safe, and damaged eclipse glasses should be replaced rather than repaired.

3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 13

Millions who used eclipse glasses for Europe’s first mainland total solar eclipse in more than 25 years are being advised to keep, donate or repurpose them rather than bin them.
Recycle Now says the glasses are not fully recyclable in household waste: cardboard frames can be recycled if separated, but the mixed-material lenses are harder to process.
2027 offers a strong reason to keep them — a 6-minute-23-second total eclipse on 2 August will cross southern Spain, northern Africa and the Arabian peninsula, with UK partial eclipses also due later.
Experts say ISO-certified glasses can be reused if stored carefully and not scratched or torn; schools, libraries and astronomy clubs may also accept donations for future events.
Repurposing is another option: the solar filter material can be mounted over a phone camera for eclipse or sunspot photos, though prolonged Sun exposure can still damage eyes and phone sensors.