Where to find free Solar Eclipse glasses in US: Your complete guide

As the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse approaches, the necessity of obtaining solar eclipse glasses becomes increasingly urgent. These specialized glasses are essential for safely viewing the sun during the eclipse, as direct exposure to the sun's rays can cause severe damage to the eye even leading to complete blindness.

While the path of totality stretches from Texas to Maine, residents of metro Phoenix can still catch a partial view of this celestial event.

Availability of Free Solar Eclipse Glasses

Thankfully, solar eclipse glasses equipped with ISO-certified solar filters are still accessible, and some locations across the nation, including metro Phoenix, are offering them free of charge. While supplies last, these glasses can be obtained at various venues, ensuring safe viewing of the solar eclipse, as per a report by azcentral.

Metro Phoenix Public Libraries

Several public libraries in metro Phoenix are participating in the distribution of free solar eclipse glasses. These libraries, listed below, have received glasses from the Space Science Institute and are offering them to patrons in preparation for the upcoming eclipse:

Phoenix Public Library (at select branches)

GateWay Community College Library
Scottsdale Public Library
Mesa Public Library
Chandler Public Library
Apache Junction Public Library
Fort McDowell Tribal Library
Ed Robson Library in Sun Lakes
Northwest Regional Library in Surprise
White Tank Library in Waddell
Litchfield Park Library
Peoria Public Library
Heroes Regional Park Library in Glendale

Arizona Science Center

If you want to see the solar eclipse, then this a good news as you can visit the Arizona Science Center. It will be hosting a viewing party for free. The timings will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m and people joining the event will be given eclipse glasses for free.

Sonic Drive-In

For a refreshing treat and free eclipse glasses, Sonic Drive-In offers the limited edition Blackout Slush Float. Each purchase of this cosmic concoction includes a complimentary pair of glasses while supplies last.

Other Locations

Eyeglass retailer Warby Parker is distributing free eclipse glasses at their metro Phoenix locations which will be available on a first come first basis. The locations where the eclipse glasses will be free at Warby Parker are Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale Quarter, Chandler Fashion Center, and SanTan Village.

Ohio-based ice cream retailer Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is offering them the purchase of their Punk Stargonaut Collection.

FAQ

What glasses are needed for a Solar Eclipse?
As per media reports, you must ensure that you have eclipse glasses that meet the ISO12312-2 international standard for sun filters.

Do solar eclipse glasses work?
Absolutely, it's never safe to gaze directly at the sun without proper eye protection designed for solar viewing. Ensure your vision's safety by using certified solar viewers, which are significantly darker than regular sunglasses and meet international safety standards.