Don’t Be Blinded by the Light: I LOVE NY Eclipse Glasses

ALBANY — Gov. Kathy Hochul this week launched a statewide effort to protect New Yorkers ahead of the Total Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8. The effort includes statewide distribution of limited-edition I LOVE NY eclipse glasses at 30 locations throughout the state – including New York State Welcome Centers and select service areas along the NYS Thruway.

A limited quantity of the I LOVE NY eclipse glasses became available March 18 at New York State Welcome Centers, select Thruway Rest Stops, and other locations.  

Regional locations distributing the glasses include: I-87 Northbound between Exit 17 and 18/ Glens Falls, Capital Region Welcome Center – NYS Thruway (I-87), Northbound between Exits 21B and 21A, Milepost 127/ Hannacroix.

“The total solar eclipse will be a once-in-a-generation experience for our state, and it’s critical that New Yorkers have the tools and information to enjoy it safely,” Gov. Hochul said, in a statement. “From heightening awareness of scams to providing thousands of New Yorkers with eclipse glasses, I’m focused on giving everyone the resources they need to safely experience this extraordinary event.”

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will encompass the western and northern parts of New York State with the roughly 100-mile wide path of totality entering in the southwestern part of the state at just after 3:15 p.m. and departing northern New York just before 3:30 p.m. 

Cities and towns within this path include Jamestown, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown, Old Forge, Lake Placid and Plattsburgh. The entire event will last for up to 2 ½ hours, marking the time the sun is first obstructed to the last moments when the moon’s shadow is cast.

The partial phases of the solar eclipse can only be safely observed directly with specialized eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer ­– regular sunglasses are not a safe replacement.

Glasses will be limited to two pairs per person, while supplies last, with a limited amount distributed daily. The glasses were approved by the New York State Department of Health and carry an ISO certification.

For a complete list of locations distributing the glasses, go to: www.iloveny.com/events/eclipse-2024/glasses/