The once in a lifetime total solar eclipse that is crossing over much Texas on April 8th, 2024 has a lot of people searching for safety eyewear that will allow them to watch the cosmic event as it passes over for a total of about 2 and a half hours. Now, totality itself (which is when you can actually take off the eye protection if you are indeed in the path of 100 percent totality), will only last between 3 minutes and almost 4 and a half minutes.

Read Related: ALERT: Rare Comet To Be Seen In Texas During The Solar Eclipse

Why are eclipse glasses necessary to watch the solar eclipse?

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Most importantly, do not purchase or use fake eclipse glasses.

You have probably been told not to stare directly at the sunlight your entire life, but when an event like an eclipse is happening, you may become tempted to sneak a peak and that is a very bad idea.

It's like putting metal in the microwave, you shouldn't even do it for one second. The UV rays from the sun can cause permanent damage in an instant. That damage is not just limited to vision problems either.

Get Free New Eclipse Glasses Here In Texas

Sonic is offering eclipse glasses while supplies last with the purchase of their limited drink the the Black Out Slush Float.

Eclipse glasses are free at any MyEyeDr location in Texas while supplies last according to this article in Forbes. Central Texas locations include 4 in Austin:

  1. 2116 Hancock Drive
  2. 714 Congress Ave #100
  3. 15004 Avery Ranch Blvd Ste 103
  4. 11645 Angus Road Suite A5

You can also check your local public library or any Texas A&M Library. Several other retail locations will also have them for sale with prices starting around a couple dollars.

Ten Important Things Texas Residents Need To Do Before The Eclipse

As the eclipse event grows closer and closer, some Texans may be a bit worried. Here's 10 things they can do to ease their stress.

Gallery Credit: Tommy Paradise, Townsquare Media, Canva

8 of the Best AirBnB's in Texas for the Eclipse

The Total Solar Eclipse is nearing and Texas will be front and center for it! Here are eight perfect AirBnB's for you to check out- while they last!

Gallery Credit: AirBnB

Perfect Texas Eclipse Viewing From Fantastic New Age Treehouse

Photo gallery of an incredible 5 story Texas treehouse on Airbnb that is perfect for eclipse viewing or stargazing.

Gallery Credit: Airbnb Host Highpoint/Canva