Spanish consumer protection authorities have ordered the immediate withdrawal of six solar eclipse glasses models after finding manufacturing flaws that could cause serious eye injuries. The products, sold under the brands Lionstar, ECP Eye Care Proffesional, Pelispan, Homanaje, Orro and Opticalia, were identified during inspections in Madrid, Castilla y León, Galicia, La Rioja and Aragón, information from FACUA-Consumidores en Acción.
Investigators found the same critical defect in all six models: their filters were excessively dark and fell below the minimum required level of light transmission. Users see only darkness through the glasses, making it difficult to locate the solar disc during an eclipse. They may move the glasses aside or briefly remove them to find the sun, exposing their eyes directly to solar radiation. Direct viewing can damage retinal cells, including those in the fovea, and may cause lasting vision problems.
The Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and Agenda 2030 has added the models to its national alert network for dangerous non-food products. They include Lionstar (LSP1), Homanaje (QW-50Z1) and Orro (O37-R), along with the full ranges from ECP Eye Care Proffesional, Pelispan and Opticalia. The order bans further sales and requires authorities to immobilize units already distributed on the market.
The technical criteria for industrial solar glass differ from those for eclipse-viewing filters. EU trade proceedings concerning industrial tempered glass specify solar transmittance above 88% across the AM1.5 range of 300-2,500 nanometres, heat resistance up to 250°C, thermal-shock resistance of Δ150 K and mechanical strength of at least 90 N/mm² under EN 12150 and EN 1288-3. These are industrial glass specifications, not eyewear safety thresholds, and should not be used to assess eclipse-glass filters.
FACUA warns that similar irregularities could affect other eclipse glasses on sale or being given away, particularly as demand rises ahead of astronomical events. The organization urges consumers to check that solar-viewing glasses meet the relevant European safety standards and to avoid products without clear certification. The risk extends beyond the recalled brands: substandard filters can appear in many products, especially those given away for free or sold online without proper oversight.
Concern over eclipse safety has grown in Spain in recent years, with authorities warning against removing protective eyewear, even briefly. A recent analysis of eclipse safety protocols notes that strict rules for eclipse viewing have been implemented across the country to prevent lasting eye damage. The latest recall reinforces the need to use certified glasses and follow official guidance during solar events.
Solar eclipses draw widespread public interest in Spain. Schools and local authorities often organize viewing events, with science centers also involved. Rising demand for eclipse glasses has increased the risk that uncertified products reach consumers. The article identifies EN ISO 12312-2 as the relevant standard for solar-viewing glasses and advises consumers to check for the CE mark and compliance with that standard. Improper eyewear can cause permanent vision loss. Even brief exposure to direct sunlight during an eclipse can have serious consequences.
