These Astronomer-Approved Glasses Are The Safest Way To Watch The Solar Eclipse

Everyone who's anyone is going to view the solar eclipse when it soars across the sky on Aug. 21. But staring at the sun — even when it's blocked by the moon — is a big no-no. So whether you're going to be eating out on a patio, throwing your own eclipse viewing party, or just popping out your office door to see the galactic event, you need to know how to protect your eyes. And the best way is by getting scientist-approved sunglasses.

The AAS, that is the American Astronomical Society, has released a list of approved vendors. In order to view the solar eclipse safely, glasses must have gone through testing at an accredited laboratory to meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard for such products. In layman's terms, that means they block 99.99 percent of the sun's rays, Time reports.

But with the solar eclipse just days away, you may find yourself scrambling to get a pair of these much-coveted safety glasses. But don't worry just yet! There is still time to grab a pair. AAS has actually compiled a lengthy list of vendors that offer solar glasses and other viewing equipment online and in person.

Luckily for most of us, many of the retail chains listed are plentiful and reliable. Walmart, Best Buy, 7-Eleven, Lowe's, and Toys "R" Us are all selling eclipse glasses. Walmart, which still has plenty of AAS-approved glasses in stock, are selling their safe-viewing glasses for just $1.

Online, you may have less luck. Shipping and handling time aside, numerous retailers on Amazon are already sold out of eclipse glasses. But sellers such as Lunt Solar Systems and Eclipse Glasses still have some stock available. But beware of fakers! Only vendors listed on the AAS website are safe for viewing.

Didn't get a pair of glasses? Maybe try this pizza box hack from Pizza Hut. We can't guarantee you won't go blind, though.