There are some opportunities in one’s life when there is a solar eclipse and one can see it from his home. But there is a question of whether a person can view the solar eclipse without any safety equipment. The simple answer to this question is no. But there also come many questions in one’s mind like can I use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse.

Because it can be very harmful to view the solar eclipse without protective equipment. A person who doesn’t have solar glasses but has a welding helmet, thinks that can I use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse. The simple answer to this question is yes. But one should know how to use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse. Although there are many new technology welding helmets like Bluetooth welding helmets you should be very careful while choosing a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse.

Why You Should Not View Solar Eclipse with Naked Eyes

First, understand the mechanism of the solar eclipse. When Moon comes in between Sun and Earth, the sun rays do not directly reach the earth. And the outer portion of the Sun, “corona”, starts glowing. So, the rays produced during this duration are very harmful to the eyes.

If a person views those rays without safety equipment, it can cause damage to vision. Therefore, it is always recommended not to watch the solar eclipse with naked eyes. One must use solar eclipse goggles, special lenses, or a welding helmet.

How to Use a Welding Helmet to View Solar Eclipse

Some people think that all welding helmets can be used for viewing solar eclipses. But it is not true. Because for viewing a solar eclipse, there should be a minimum shade range of #12. So, it would be best if you a welding helmet with a shade range greater than 12 because it can block all harmful rays from the Sun.

Shade number 13 of the welding lens gives you the best view of a solar eclipse. Please don’t go up to 14 number shade because it is too dark to see the view. Therefore, it is recommended to check the shade of the welding helmet and set it at 13 and get the best view experience.

Check Your Welding Helmet is Safe for Viewing Solar Eclipse

You can use great quality welding helmets for viewing a solar eclipse. But not use a welding helmet that is too old. NASA recommends not to use a welding helmet for a solar eclipse that is more than three years old. Many people who are using the welding helmet of others don’t know how old the welding helmet is. In such cases, it is best not to use a welding helmet for viewing solar eclipse because it can damage your eyesight.

Also, check the glass of the welding helmet. If it is cracked, the bright light can pass through it, which can be very dangerous for your eyes. We recommend testing your welding helmet before viewing the solar eclipse. And if there is an issue with it then never use it to view the solar eclipse.

Conclusion

If you are confused, can I use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse? Here are our final thoughts about it. If you have a quality welding helmet, you can use it to view a solar eclipse. Always set a shade number greater than 12 because it can stop harmful rays. Shade number 13 of the welding lens is best to get a clear view of the solar eclipse.

Also, make sure that your welding helmet is not older than three years and that there is no crack in the glass of the welding helmet. If there is a crack in the glass, it can’t stop the flashlight and harmful rays that can be very dangerous for your vision. So, before using a welding helmet to view a solar eclipse, make sure that your helmet is in good working condition.

Read More: How to Charge a Solar Welding Helmet

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