The total solar eclipse will be visible to most of New York State on Monday, April 8th and many are preparing to watch it. If you have those special solar eclipse glasses, you want to make sure they are legit so you don't damage your eyes.

Solar Eclipse Visible Across Swath Of U.S.
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According to Scientific American, there could be thousands of counterfeit solar eclipse glasses circulating. They were made aware of the fake glasses from a distributor who purchased thousands from China and noticed that they weren't the real deal. Make sure you check out yours before April 8th.

How Can You Tell If You Have Fake Solar Eclipse Glasses?

There are a few ways you can ensure that your solar eclipse glasses are legit and will keep you safe while looking at the solar eclipse. Here are the three ways you can tell if you are potentially going to damage your eyes during the eclipse.

  • Wear them inside and look around your house. Very bright lights should be the only light you see. You can look at lightbulbs and your iPhone flashlight that is shined directly at you
  • Put your solar eclipse glasses on outside. The glasses should make it too dark to see trees and hills in the distance. Also, you shouldn't be able to see the ground.
  • After the second test, take a short look up at the sun. This shouldn't affect your eyes at all. If the glasses are legit, you should be able to check out the sun and notice it is bright and a "sharp-edged" circle. If you are having trouble looking at the sun at all, stop looking.*

*You should only do the third step if your solar glasses are safe through the first two steps.

You could always make sure you get your glasses from a reputable place like the New York State locations that are giving them out.

Updated Eclipse Times Across New York State

Top officials gave us the updated eclipse times in parts of New York State that will enjoy a total solar eclipse on April 8.

 

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