With the arrival of the Solar eclipse 2026, the demand for observation glasses increases and, with it, also the appearance of counterfeit products. Although many of these glasses show similar inscriptions to those of the approved models, experts warn that they do not always offer the protection necessary to look at the Sun safely.
If you’ve already purchased your glasses for the Total Eclipse 2026, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check that they’re genuine. A quick check-up can avoid unnecessary risks during the August Eclipse.
FAKES ALSO COPY LABELING
The fact that glasses include references to the EN ISO 12312-2:2015 standard or the CE marking is not always a guarantee of authenticity. Specialist organisations recommend checking that the print is clear, that the manufacturer or distributor is clearly identified and that the product has a batch or batch number that allows you to know its origin.
It is also advisable to be wary of sellers who do not offer information about the origin of the glasses or who cannot answer questions about their certification.
THE TEST YOU CAN DO AT HOME
Before the eclipse it is possible to carry out a simple check. When looking at an intense lamp inside a home, only the brightest point of light should be very dimly visible. The rest should remain completely dark.
If with the glasses on it is possible to distinguish people, buildings, trees or any other element of the environment, they should not be used to observe the Sun. Similarly, filters should not be scratched, punctured, wrinkled or deformed.
SIGNALS THAT SHOULD SET OFF ALARMS
Experts also advise paying attention to the general condition of the glasses. Flimsy construction, irregular finishes, or poorly adjusted filters may indicate that the product has not passed the necessary checks.
Another important aspect is the place of purchase. Internet sales platforms and occasional sellers concentrate a large part of the fakes detected, so it is always more advisable to go to trusted distributors or specialized establishments.
If after checking the glasses there are still doubts about their authenticity, the recommendation is clear: do not use them to observe the eclipse. The risk of retinal damage means that, at the slightest suspicion, it is preferable to replace them with a model whose origin and certification can be verified.
