The Museum of Science and the Cosmos in Tenerife distributed its 2,000 certified glasses in just three days. Meanwhile, the Elder Museum of Science and Technology in Gran Canaria, which began distributing nearly 4,000 glasses with ticket purchases, has seen a notable increase in attendance. The anticipation for the eclipse, which will only be a partial 'bite' out of the Sun in the islands, has prompted thousands of Canarians to seek the essential instrument for safe viewing.
Antonia Varela, director of the Museum of Science and the Cosmos, described the situation as 'incredible,' noting that the glasses were distributed rapidly with minimal promotion. Gregorio de La Fuente from the Elder museum confirmed the rise in attendance and the brisk pace of glass distribution, highlighting the public's strong interest in this astronomical event.
These institutions, along with the Ojos al cielo museum in Los Cancajos, La Palma, are participating in the national initiative 'A Unique View. Take Care of It,' promoted by the Grupo Social ONCE and the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. The campaign aims to distribute two million free glasses nationwide, with over 6,000 reaching the Canary Islands.
Varela emphasized that the public's interest reflects the anticipation for the eclipse, which will cover 70% of the Sun in the islands, offering a spectacle worth watching. De La Fuente reminded the public that the glasses can be shared and are also available for purchase at major retailers for 1.50 euros, although prolonged observation is not recommended even with them.
The Elder museum will have additional glasses to distribute on August 12th during the observation event 'Cosmic Watchtowers' ('Atalayas cósmicas'). This event will take place at various locations across the islands, including Tejeda (Gran Canaria), Playa de San Juan (Tenerife), La Santa (Lanzarote), El Cotillo (Fuerteventura), Valle Gran Rey (La Gomera), Tazacorte (La Palma), La Frontera (El Hierro), and Caleta de Sebo (La Graciosa). Experts will provide information about eclipses and guide the public through the phenomenon's evolution.
Safe observation requires certified eclipse glasses conforming to the ISO 12312-2 standard, free from scratches, tears, or damage, and checked against a light source. They must be put on before looking at the Sun, viewed briefly with pauses, and removed only after looking away. It is crucial never to look at the Sun through binoculars or telescopes without professional solar filters attached to the front. Direct exposure can cause irreversible eye damage, such as solar retinopathy, which affects the macula and may not present immediate symptoms.
