Eye safety for the 2027 eclipse
Looking directly at the Sun, even when it is 99% covered, can permanently damage your eyes. Here is how to watch safely.
Use certified eclipse glasses
Use eclipse glasses or handheld viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 standard, from a reputable supplier. Sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe.
Check them before use and discard any with scratches, holes or loose filters. Supervise children.
Only during totality
Only while the Moon covers the Sun completely is it safe to look without protection. When the first bright point of sunlight returns, put your glasses back on.
Outside the path of totality — for example in Seville, Madrid or Cairo — there is no safe moment to look without protection.
Cameras, binoculars and telescopes
Never look through a camera viewfinder, binoculars or a telescope at the partly eclipsed Sun without a proper solar filter on the front of the instrument. Eclipse glasses are not enough behind optics.
Heat
Much of the path is very hot in early August. Bring water, shade and sun protection.
Last reviewed 16 October 2026