7 safe ways to view the partial phases of the total solar eclipse on April 8

During the total solar eclipse on April 8, the only time it is safe to look at the sun without proper eye protection is during totality — the thrilling period when the entire disk of the sun will be blocked by the moon for up to 4 minutes and 27 seconds, depending on the observer's location. This will be possible only within a narrow path of totality through North America.

Everyone outside this path, as well as those within it, will need to use solar glasses or other methods to view the much longer partial phase of the solar eclipse, which will last roughly an hour and 20 minutes before and after totality.

Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the partial phases of the eclipse without putting your eyes at risk. Here are seven easy ways to safely watch the partial eclipse on April 8.

1. Solar eclipse glasses

To be safe, solar eclipse glasses must pass the ISO 12312-2 certification process. You'll see this certification printed on the arms of solar eclipse glasses, but the only way to guarantee that your solar eclipse glasses are safe is to purchase them from a provider that has been vetted by the American Astronomical Society (AAS). Online vendors like Amazon and eBay should generally be avoided.

Here's Live Science's comprehensive guide on where to buy approved solar eclipse glasses. Many local libraries on the path of totality will also be distributing free eclipse glasses while supplies last; check with your local branch to see if they're participating.

Related: April 8 total solar eclipse: The best places to stargaze near the path of totality

2. Handheld solar viewers

These small squares of cardboard have a window of the same solar safety film used to make eclipse glasses, so they can be used in the same way. As a bonus, you can punch a hole in the side and wear them around your neck using a lanyard. You can find a list of approved vendors from the AAS.