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There's a total solar eclipse coming Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2026, and this one's a global showstopper. The path of totality sweeps across Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, Spain and a small corner of Portugal. Additionally, millions across the northern hemisphere will also get to witness a partial solar eclipse, including parts of the northern U.S. (from Alaska to North Carolina), most of Canada, mainland Europe and northwestern Africa.

The timing varies dramatically by location. According to NASA, those in Greenland and Iceland will experience the eclipse during late afternoon to early evening, northern Russia gets the midday show, while Spain and Portugal will witness the dramatic finale as a sunset eclipse shortly before the sun disappears below the horizon.

To safely witness this celestial spectacle, whether you're catching the full totality experience or the partial eclipse's dramatic crescent shapes, you'll need proper eyewear. We outline some essential tips to keep in mind when buying your solar eclipse glasses, as well as top picks to ensure you're ready for this once-in-a-generation viewing opportunity.

Why Do You Need Solar Eclipse Glasses?

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR), and looking at the sun wearing anything that isn’t specially designed to deal with both the visible light and invisible radiation could cause major injury, including blindness.

The only safe way to view a full or partially-eclipsed sun is through solar filters (also known as eclipse glasses) or handheld solar viewers, and it’s critical that these filters must meet the safety requirements of ISO 12312-2.

Solar eclipse glasses are made of black polymer, a flexible resin infused with carbon particles that are about 100,000 times darker than ordinary sunglasses and block nearly all visible light (as well as UV and IR).

Can You Watch A Solar Eclipse Through Your Smartphone?

You cannot use regular glasses or a smartphone to see the solar eclipse - you must get glasses that are specially designed to block out the sun’s rays. Viewing any part of the sun through a camera, binoculars or a telescope without a special solar filter can cause an immediate severe eye injury.

There are smartphone lens filters, however, that will allow you to view the eclipse through your phone lens without it potentially damaging your lenses.

What To Look For When Buying Solar Eclipse Glasses

American Paper Optics is the premier brand when it comes to solar eclipse glasses. When buying, make sure there is proper labeling on the inside of each pair of glasses, including wearing instructions and ISO certification.

When we last spoke with The Weather Channel’s on-camera meteorologist, Danielle Banks, she said, “Be really careful when buying from any third-party sellers. Make sure the glasses meet the proper safety standards so you don’t hurt your eyes.”

Solar Eclipse Glasses And Camera Lens Options

You can certainly shop through Amazon, just make sure the glasses have a proper ISO certification listed on the glasses and the shopping page. Another good resource is B&H Photo, which offers a selection starting at a single pair of solar eclipse glasses, up to hundreds in a bundle.

1. Solar Eclipse Glasses AAS Approved 2024 (Two Pack)

Price: $7.99 at Amazon

Features:

• Made by NASA-approved manufacturer American Paper Optics
• CE and ISO certified for direct sun viewing, according to company
• Scratch-resistant silver polymer lense material

2. GottaHaveit Solar Lens For Camera

Price: starting at $3.49 at Walmart

Features:

• Designed to capture images of the sun and protect your phone or camera lens
• Hold filter in front of smartphone lens with correct side facing the sun
• Not designed for direct sun viewing

Price accurate and items in stock at time of publish.