CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Americans are gearing up for the total solar eclipse on April 8.
While the event will only offer us a partial eclipse here in the Carolinas, experts say it’s still important to wear eclipse glasses when viewing the celestial event.
But what if you have an old pair of solar glasses from the 2017 eclipse, can you reuse those?
THE QUESTION
Can you reuse your old solar eclipse glasses from 2017?
THE SOURCES
THE ANSWER
Yes, you can use old eclipse glasses -- as long as they are ISO 12312-2 standard-certified and are in perfect condition, meaning there are no scratches or holes in the lenses.
WHAT WE FOUND
When comparing the 2017 solar eclipse with this year’s, DiBraccio said there are a few differences, the path being the most important.
"So the path is different but also the width of totality is also a little wider than it was in 2017," DiBraccio said.
And for those in the path of totality? DiBraccio said the total eclipse will last a little bit longer than it did back in 2017.
"So the moon is actually going to be traveling a little bit slower because of where it is in its orbit, that means the totality will last 4.5 minutes," DiBraccio explained.
If you remember watching the eclipse seven years ago, you might have a pair of old eclipse glasses stored away somewhere in your desk drawer. But is it safe to use them again?
"We can use them -- if you see any obvious scratches or holes in them you don’t want to use them," DiBraccio said.
The American Astronomical Society says before using any eclipse glasses, make sure you check the sides to ensure they say ISO 12312-2 standard.
Experts say any "legitimate" eclipse glasses made after 2015 should be ISO-certified and safe to use when viewing the eclipse in a few weeks.
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