Published: 11th March 2025 09:53 (UTC)

Observing the Sun can be a fascinating educational experience, revealing features such as sunspots and solar activity. However, doing so safely requires proper eye protection. Eclipse glasses provide a simple and effective way to view the Sun at any time, not just during solar eclipses. These awe-inspiring celestial events offer a unique opportunity for people to engage with astronomy, but safe viewing is essential to prevent eye damage and ensure a meaningful experience for all.

Thanks to the collaboration between Astronomy for Equity and the IAU Office for Astronomy Education, a total of 132,500 eclipse glasses have been shipped to organisations in Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Senegal, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.

In addition to the eclipse glasses, we are developing educational materials to help integrate solar observations into the curriculum, further enhancing public understanding of safe solar observation.

We are excited to be part of this initiative and look forward to inspiring and engaging more communities with astronomy around the world!