University of Kentucky Issues Warning about Unsafe Eclipse Glasses Distributed on Campus

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ICARO Media Group
News
06/04/2024 21h58

In a surprising turn of events, the University of Kentucky has found itself in hot water as its campus libraries inadvertently distributed unsafe eclipse glasses to students and other individuals. The university has taken immediate action to rectify the situation and is urging everyone who received these glasses to discard them immediately.

The discovery was made when university officials became aware on Friday morning that the eclipse glasses, manufactured by Biniki, had not been approved for safe use. Contrary to what was claimed by the product, they did not possess the endorsement of the American Astronomical Society (AAS).

UK Libraries released a statement addressing the issue and extending their sincerest apologies for the confusion caused. The university is now working diligently to ensure the safety of its students and community members who may have been affected by the distribution of these flawed glasses.

It is crucial to emphasize the potential dangers of viewing an eclipse without proper protection. The act of exposing one's eyes to the sun during an eclipse can lead to a condition known as solar retinopathy, which can result in permanent damage to the eyes.

To ensure the safety of eclipse glasses, individuals are advised to check for the label "ISO 12312-2" on the glasses before using them. Furthermore, experts suggest using a simple test by shining a flashlight directly onto the lenses. If the light does not pass through, it is an indication that the glasses are safe to use.

The university's swift response to the situation highlights their commitment to ensuring the well-being of their students and the wider community. They are actively working to mitigate any potential harm caused by the distribution of these unsafe eclipse glasses.

Given the potential risks associated with viewing an eclipse without proper eye protection, it is imperative that anyone who received these glasses from the University of Kentucky's libraries heed the university's advice and dispose of them immediately. Safety must always be the top priority when it comes to observing natural phenomena such as an eclipse.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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