The 2026 eclipse will bring many first-time observers outdoors across Spain and Europe. Planning ahead matters: suitable eye protection can sell out near major events, while unfamiliar products and last-minute marketplace listings may be difficult to verify. Use this checklist to choose an appropriate viewer and prepare everyone in your group before observation day.
Choose a product made for direct solar viewing
Eclipse glasses and handheld viewers should be designed for direct observation of the Sun without magnification and shown by reliable documentation to conform to ISO 12312-2:2015. Ordinary sunglasses are not suitable, even when they are very dark. A printed ISO reference alone is not enough; look for an identifiable manufacturer, clear instructions, traceable product information and evidence of appropriate testing.
Buy from the manufacturer or a clearly identified authorised seller whenever possible. Keep the packaging, instructions and order details so that you can confirm exactly which product you received. Avoid viewers with missing manufacturer information, vague safety claims, altered labels or damaged packaging.
Understand the difference between glasses and optical filters
Eclipse glasses are for direct, unaided viewing. They must never be used to look through binoculars, telescopes, camera lenses or other magnifying equipment. Those instruments concentrate sunlight and require their own suitable solar filter, mounted securely over the front aperture. A filter fitted near an eyepiece is not an acceptable substitute. Follow the equipment and filter manufacturers’ instructions and seek specialist advice before using any optical instrument for solar observation.
Prepare before the event
Order enough glasses for your group and check that smaller frames fit children securely. Inspect every viewer in good indoor light. Do not use one that is scratched, torn, punctured, deeply creased or separating from its frame. Store approved viewers flat in protective sleeves until needed.
Practise the viewing sequence in advance, especially with children: stand still, face away from the Sun, put the glasses on, then turn toward the Sun. After looking, turn away before removing them. Children must remain supervised throughout the activity. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and official local guidance for every phase of the eclipse; suitable solar protection is required whenever any part of the Sun’s bright surface is visible.
Keep the experience simple
Choose a stable observation area away from traffic and trip hazards. Do not walk while looking upward. If a viewer slips, becomes damaged, produces an unusually bright image or causes discomfort, stop using it immediately. Never improvise a repair during the event.
A little preparation makes group observation calmer and safer. Confirm the product, inspect it carefully, practise how to put it on and keep optical equipment separate unless it has a proper front-mounted solar filter.