Eclipse Glasses USA

Eclipse Giveback Program

Eclipse Glasses USA accepts undamaged glasses (that meet the following conditions) and sends them to other countries that are set to experience an upcoming eclipse. For example, there will be an eclipse in Latin America this fall, and the company has sent over 30,000 glasses to schools thus far. 

Glasses must:

• Be US-made paperboard glasses
• Have the manufacturer's address and contact information
• bear the ISO logo
• be in good condition, with no rips, tears, or damage

Where to send:

Eclipse Glasses USA, LLC

PO BOX 50571

Provo, UT 84605

For the most up-to-date information and to learn more, visit the Eclipse Giveback Program here.

Astronomers Without Borders

Astronomers Without Borders (AWB) requires glasses to be physically dropped off at a specified location. They are currently partnering with Warby Parker stores as a drop-off location. While there aren't any nearby Cook County, there are a few locations in the Twin Cities. If you're planning a trip and have time to make a stop, this option may be for you. Click here to find a Warby Parker location.

AWB does not list any specific donation qualifications, but since they will be reused, it's good practice to make sure the glasses are ISO-certified and undamaged. 

For the most up-to-date information and to learn more, visit the AWB site here.

Reusing Glasses for the Next Eclipse

Hoping to save your glasses for the next eclipse? Depending on when you're hoping to view totality, this may be a possibility. According to the American Astronomical Society, as of this time, eclipse glasses do not expire, assuming they meet the correct ISO standards and do not have any holes, tears, or rips. This is applicable for most eclipse glasses, however, some do come with a warning that you should discard them after three years, so it's important to check your glasses before deciding what to do with them. 

The next solar eclipse within the continental US will be in 2044, and will be visible in North Dakota and Montana. 

Recycling Glasses

If your glasses are damaged or not able to be donated, you can recycle them as a last resort. The lens portion of the glasses is NOT recyclable and can be discarded. The paperboard portion can go with cardboard or mixed paper, depending on the material they are made out of.