Is a welder's helmet safe for viewing a solar eclipse?
JUL 30, 2017
Question:
Is a welder's helmet safe for viewing a solar eclipse?
Answer:
The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Astronomical Society have detailed recommendations on the safest ways to view an eclipse. There is substantial variability in the quality of welder's helmets. Also, if the filter in the helmet is scratched it will not be as effective as intended. You are safe using a welder’s helmet in good condition with #14 welder’s glass (darkest shade and the only shade that is safe to view an eclipse).