Every time there’s a solar eclipse, the media is obligated to remind everyone not to look directly at it. A solar eclipse, for those who were drawing cars in science class like I was, occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, blocking out some (or all) of the light from the sun. Special viewing glasses are required to view an eclipse without causing permanent damage to your vision. That’s why we’re often asked if it’s okay to look at an eclipse through the lens of a welding helmet.
On April 8, 2024, certain parts of the United States may get to witness a total solar eclipse. However, instead of the sun being only partially blocked (partial eclipse), the entire sun will disappear behind the moon. For everyone in the so-called “path of totality,” a period of near total darkness will last about four minutes. During those few minutes (and only within the path of totality) NASA says you may look directly at the sun.
Not everyone will be so lucky, however. The path of totality will run from Austin, Texas to Burlington, Vermont. Along the way it passes through third-tier metro areas like a washed-up rock band on a state fair reunion tour. Hello, Little Rock, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo – it’s so great to see you!
Just outside that path, you might catch the more familiar partial solar eclipse. And you may be tempted to grab your welding helmet to have a quick look. We’re here to tell you, DON’T! And here’s why.
Not All Welding Helmets are the Same
According to experts, special filtering lenses are required to look directly at an eclipse. A shielded lens with a shade number of at least 14 will filter out the damaging rays of direct sunlight. Shade 14 is super dark, and many helmets reach only shade 12 or 13.
More importantly, popular modern welding helmets typically employ automatic darkening technology that relies on sensors to activate. The lens, in other words, is not always dark and may not stay dark enough for eclipse viewing. This makes it convenient for seeing normally with the helmet down until you’re actually welding.
That’s because the sensors react to the white-hot strike of a welding arc to go into shield mode. And while an eclipse is undeniably bright, it may not necessarily trigger a reaction to darken the lens. In addition, it may not remain dark throughout a viewing period.
A safer bet is to stick to dedicated eclipse viewing lenses. They’re tried and certified to filter out the harmful light rays. Total eclipses like the one on April 8th are rare, however, and demand for these glasses may outstrip supply as the date approaches. An alternative might be to check out your local welding supply store and see if they have an “shade 14” welding shield lenses. These are essentially replacement parts for traditional helmets without automatic darkening.
In any event, leave your automatic welding helmet inside during an eclipse. As awe-inspiring and wondrous as an eclipse can be, it’s not worth permanently damaging your vision.