Sending Solar Glasses to Build Community
Astronomers Without Borders has been sending solar glasses for annular and total solar eclipse since 2008. From Africa, Asia, North and South America, our members, partners and National Coordinators helped to bring glasses to people who may not otherwise have a safe way to view the eclipse directly. Travellers from the United States graciously volunteered to bring them in their luggage and hand them out to local educators and organizers of public viewing events.
Recycling Donated Glasses
Building a community beyond time and place - glasses that once allowed Americans to witness the 2017 Great American Eclipse built bridges to individuals all over the world!
Millions of donated glasses turned into a few hundred thousand that were vetted for reusability.
Tens of thousands were then sent to South America, Asia, Africa and South America again. Seven years after the Great American Total Solar Eclipse, we have dispensed all the glasses that were entrusted to us from generous Americans who sent them to us at their own expense.
Building on Past Success
AWB is committed to continue sending glasses to those who need them for outreach and educational programs around the world. AWB is currently searching for funding to support this program for the April 8, 2024 North American total solar eclipse.
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Are you organizing an eclipse viewing event where large crowds will be attending?
Consider participating in our eclipse glasses recycling program by becoming a collection and vetting hub. AWB is working on providing vetting, packing, storing and shipping instructions. For participating as an eclipse glasses collection/vetting hub , please contact zoe@astronomerswithoutborders.org
If you are interested in financially supporting this global program, please donate to our fundraiser here.
Note: AWB is a registered US 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
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