Spain will distribute two million certified solar viewing glasses free of charge ahead of the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. Led by the Ministry of Science, New idea and Universities in partnership with Grupo Social ONCE, the initiative aims to make it safer for the public to observe the rare astronomical event.
Under the campaign «Una vista única. Cuídala», ONCE will distribute 1.7 million glasses through its network of street vendors and kiosks. The Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT) will manage the remaining 300,000 units, distributing them through museums, science centers, and other educational institutions. The agreement was formalized at the National Museum of Science and Technology (MUNCYT) in A Coruña.
How to Get the Glasses
Starting the week of August 3, ONCE vendors will distribute the certified glasses at their regular sales points, including kiosks and mobile locations. No purchase is required, though the glasses will also be available alongside special eclipse-themed lottery coupons. There is no national reservation system or online form. Distribution will be in person, with availability varying by location.
Science Centers and Museums
FECYT will allocate 300,000 glasses to science museums and centers across Spain. Participating venues include the Museo Interactivo de la Música de Málaga, Parque de las Ciencias de Andalucía in Granada, Museo Aragonés de Paleontología in Teruel, Bioparc Acuario de Gijón, Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos in Tenerife, Museo Elder in Las Palmas, and many others across all regions. Dates, times, and quantities for each center have not been specified, so visitors should check official channels before traveling.
Ensuring Glasses Meet Safety Standards
The campaign specifies that distributed glasses must display «EN ISO 12312-2:2015» on the product, packaging, or instructions. Glasses marked only with «ISO 12312-1» are not safe for direct solar viewing. Products sold in the European Union must also carry authentic CE marking. A printed designation alone does not establish that a particular pair conforms: product conformity depends on documented manufacturing and testing controls. Before use, inspect the glasses for scratches, holes, or damage, and discard any compromised units. Those unable to obtain a free pair can buy certified glasses from reputable retailers and follow the same safety checks.
Safe Viewing Guidelines
To avoid eye damage, put on the glasses before looking at the Sun and remove them only after turning away. The National Geographic Institute recommends limiting direct viewing to intervals of no more than one minute. Glasses may be removed only during the brief period of totality, when the Sun is completely obscured. Regular sunglasses, homemade filters, and improvised materials such as CDs or X-rays are unsafe. Cameras, binoculars, and telescopes need their own certified solar filters, fitted to the front.
The eclipse will occur near sunset, so a clear western horizon is impressive for optimal viewing. The same safety protocols will apply to the total solar eclipse of 2027 and the annular eclipse of 2028.
This large-scale distribution is part of Spain's national eclipse plan, which coordinates public safety, mobility, and scientific outreach for upcoming celestial events. Talent24h reports that the campaign reflects a growing emphasis on accessible science education and public health during rare astronomical phenomena.
