The following guide highlights top lenses, filters, and viewing aids to safely experience and capture solar eclipses. Each pick adheres to safety standards and supports both visual observing and photography, whether you’re using a telescope, spotting scope, or a smartphone.
Summary Table of Selected Products
- Celestron – EclipSmart Safe Solar Eclipse Telescope Filter (ISO 12312-2:2015) — Works with telescopes and cameras
- Celestron – EclipSmart Safe Solar Eclipse Telescope Filter (ISO 12312-2:2015) — Fits various 127–130mm scopes
- Seymour Solar Hyperion Film Solar Filter — Slip-on camera lens, 70mm, 2.75 inches
- Gravitis Solar Eclipse Photography 2in1 Filter And Viewer — Smartphone compatible
- Kesseph Solar Eclipse Glasses — 10 pack with smartphone filter lens
Celestron EclipSmart Safe Solar Eclipse Filter for Telescopes
The Celestron EclipSmart filter complies with ISO 12312-2:2015(E) for direct solar viewing. It is designed to fit a wide range of equipment, including telescopes, spotting scopes, and DSLR cameras with objective diameters between 75mm and 100mm. The filter features adjustable side panels for a secure fit and comes with a reusable storage bag. This setup supports safe solar observations and straightforward storage when not in use.
Celestron EclipSmart Safe Solar Eclipse Filter for 127–130mm Telescopes
This ISO 12312-2:2015(E) compliant solar filter is compatible with several popular telescope models, including PowerSeeker 127EQ and Astro Fi 130. It features two hook-and-loop straps for a snug fit and a safety cap to protect the filter’s surface during storage. The filter enables safe, direct solar viewing of eclipses and sunspots, with a secure, simple mounting method for quick setup.
Seymour Solar Hyperion Film Solar Filter for 70mm Lens
Designed for camera lenses, the Hyperion filter uses a solar film that blocks 99.999% of sunlight when used correctly, protecting eyes and camera equipment. It is recommended by the American Astronomical Society and is marketed as a practical tool for documenting major solar events like total solar eclipses. The filter is sized for 2.75″ (70mm) lenses and is suitable for safe solar photography during eclipse imaging.
Gravitis Solar Eclipse Photography 2in1 Filter And Viewer
This 2in1 system provides a solar photography filter and a viewer compatible with smartphones. It emphasizes safe solar capture by shielding direct sun exposure and enables universal compatibility across a range of smartphones. The design focuses on user-friendly mounting and broad device compatibility to aid celestial photography with mobile devices.
Kesseph Solar Eclipse Glasses Pack with Smartphone Filter
These solar eclipse glasses are CE and ISO certified for direct sun viewing, with a 10-pack that includes a bonus smartphone photo filter lens. They are designed for safe, direct observation of total solar eclipses and come from an AAS-recognized manufacturer. The included smartphone lens aims to help users capture solar phases with mobile devices while maintaining eye safety.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Safety certifications: Look for ISO 12312-2:2015(E) compliance for direct sun viewing products. This ensures filters are designed to reduce solar radiation to safe levels for eyes or camera sensors.
- Intended use: Decide whether you need telescope filters for direct viewing, camera adapters for imaging, or smartphone add-ons for quick social-media ready shots. Some options are multi-use, while others target specific setups.
- Fit and compatibility: Check objective diameter compatibility (e.g., 75–100mm or 127–130mm) and whether Velcro straps or caps are included to secure the filter during observation.
- Durability and storage: Reusable, foldable designs with protective storage bags help maintain filter integrity between eclipses and protect surfaces when not in use.
- Ease of use: Quick-fitting mechanisms and clear safety instructions reduce the risk of accidental exposure and simplify setup for events lasting only minutes.
- Photographic goals: For imaging, prioritize filters that preserve color fidelity and minimize artifacts, along with accessories that enable stable mounting on cameras or telescopes.
- Multi-device compatibility: If you own multiple devices (telescope, spotting scope, smartphone), consider 2in1 or universal options that streamline gear management during an eclipse.
- Smartphone integration: If you want quick social sharing, choose products that include or support smartphone adapters and dedicated photo filters for easy capture during totality phases.
Product Comparison Overview
- Celestron EclipSmart Filters offer ISO-compliant solar viewing with secure fit options for both telescopes and cameras, including models with hook-and-loop straps for stable mounting.
- Seymour Solar Hyperion provides a lens-specific film filter aimed at camera use, endorsed by the American Astronomical Society for safe solar photography, suitable for 70mm lenses.
- Gravitis 2in1 is smartphone-centric, providing a universal filter and viewer for easy on-device solar photography, emphasizing safety and convenience.
- Kesseph eclipse glasses combine direct viewing safety with a bonus smartphone filter, making them a practical emergency kit addition for both eye safety and casual imaging.
Note: The arrangements above reflect a mix of viewing and imaging tools, each focusing on safe solar observation and effective eclipse photography. Always follow all safety guidelines when observing the Sun and never look at the Sun through unfiltered lenses or devices without proper filters.