RICHMOND, British Columbia, Aug. 10, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On August 21st, Canadians will get to see what could be a once-in-a-lifetime event for many: a partial solar eclipse. To experience the eclipse safely, special-purpose solar filter glasses are necessary. The eye gear must be designated ISO 12312-2, meaning they meet the eye protection requirements for the direct observation of the sun. Regular sunglasses do not provide enough protection, since they don't block out the ultra-violet and infrared rays that can damage the eyes.
Counterfeit eclipse glasses have raised safety concerns recently and NASA is warning eclipse-gazers to look for products with an “ISO” icon and the company name and contact information clearly printed on the glasses. They also suggest inspecting the solar filter lenses for scratches or damage before use.
Celestron EclipSmart Solar Shades, available at London Drugs, meet the ISO protection requirements for the safe viewing of the eclipse and are made by an American Astronomical Society-approved producer. The glasses will be available at all London Drugs locations and online at LondonDrugs.com. A single pair retails for $3.49 and four packs are $12.99.
According to NASA, an eclipse of this magnitude hasn’t been seen since 1918. Those in Vancouver and Victoria will see 90 per cent of the sun go dark. The eclipse will cover 80 per cent of the sun in Calgary and Regina, about 75 per cent in Edmonton and Winnipeg. The next event of this kind visible to Canadians won’t occur until 2044.
Select London Drugs locations are hosting eclipse viewing events and photography workshops. To learn more about these events, visit LondonDrugs.com/WorkshopList and select a location from the dropdown menu.
Customers can bring their Celestron EclipSmart Solar Shades to London Drugs for recycling after the eclipse on August 21st to receive a coupon for $10 off the purchase of any regularly priced camera, lens or binoculars valued at $99 or higher.*
*One coupon per pair of Celestron EclipSmart Solar Shades recycled. Limit of one coupon may be applied to any camera, lens, or binocular purchase. Coupon effective August 21st (after the eclipse ends) until August 31st.
ABOUT LONDON DRUGS
Founded in 1945, B.C.-based London Drugs has 80 stores in more than 35 major markets throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba including its online store www.LondonDrugs.com. London Drugs offers consumers a range of products from digital cameras and cosmetics to computers and televisions. Renowned for its creative approach to retailing, the company employs more than 7,500 people with pharmacy and health care services being the heart of its business. Committed to innovation and superior customer service, London Drugs has established itself as a reputable and caring company and continues to position itself for future growth and development. @LondonDrugs