With just two days to go before the historic total solar eclipse on August 12, almost everyone knows by heart the essential characteristics that certified eclipse glasses must have to view it safely: ISO 12312-2:2015 and CE marking. However, among the models sold at retail locations in regions such as Madrid—which, at first glance, meet these standards— there are some that pose a risk of eye injury.
The warning comes from the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and the 2030 Agenda, after the governments of various autonomous communities—the Community of Madrid, Galicia, Aragon, La Rioja, and Castile and León— reported potential risks to users of these models.
The ministry’s website explains that these six models of solar eclipse glasses pose a risk due to the filter they use; because the filter is excessively dark, “the user sees only total darkness and is unable to locate the sun’s disk.” As a predictable reaction, and while facing the sun, the user slides the glasses up onto their forehead, tilts them to the side, or removes them briefly to locate the sun’s position, with the intention of putting them back on immediately.”
It is at that moment—however brief—that the eyes are exposed to direct solar radiation (visible, infrared, and ultraviolet radiation), causing chemical or thermal damage to the foveal cells of the retina.
Which models of eclipse glasses are dangerous?
- Pelispan brand.
- LIONSTAR brand, model LSP1.
- Brand: ECP Eye Care Professional.
- Brand: ORRO, model: O37-R, lot: 2603-01 (manufacture date: 2026-03).
- Brand: OPTICALIA, ref. GP0247.
- Brand: HOMANAGE, model: QW-50Z1.
In response, the measures adopted include banning and halting their sale, recalling them from the market, and retrieving the products from consumers.