American Paper Optics readies eclipse glasses for August 12 partial solar eclipse

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across 25 U.S. states on August 12, and Memphis-based American Paper Optics is moving to meet expected demand for certified viewing glasses. The company is also highlighting glasses used by NASA’s Artemis II team, positioning the event as both a family moment and a safety reminder for skywatchers.

Why it matters: - Millions of Americans across 25 states will be able to see a partial solar eclipse on August 12. - Safe eclipse glasses are required for the entire event because the Sun will never be fully covered in the U.S. view. - The eclipse gives families a built-in summer science moment while kids are still out of school or just heading back.

What happened: - American Paper Optics said it is preparing to supply eclipse glasses for the August 12 event. - The Memphis company called itself the world’s largest eclipse glasses manufacturer. - The partial eclipse will be visible from Alaska to New England. - The company pointed viewers to a localized breakdown of major U.S. cities and expected obscuration percentages.

The details: - John Jerit, CEO of American Paper Optics, said the company sees the eclipse as a family-friendly and educational event. - American Paper Optics said it uses manufacturing standards trusted by NASA and major brands. - The company said it equipped more than 75 million people for the 2024 eclipse. - American Paper Optics said it made the eclipse glasses carried into space and used by NASA’s Artemis II team to view a total solar eclipse from orbit. - Jason Lewin, chief marketing officer, said NASA’s use of the glasses validates the company’s safety focus. - The public can buy certified lenses at the company’s eclipse glasses site. - The company says the glasses are made in the USA.

Between the lines: - The Artemis II connection gives the product a high-trust proof point at a time when eclipse viewing demand is about to spike. - American Paper Optics is tying a backyard event to a spaceflight story to make safety feel both practical and aspirational. - The company is also leaning on its scale history, especially the 2024 eclipse rollout, to signal it can handle another rush.

What's next: - Demand is expected to rise quickly as August 12 gets closer. - Skywatchers in the U.S. can use certified glasses to safely watch the partial eclipse from start to finish. - International viewers in Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see the total eclipse. - American Paper Optics is promoting direct sales ahead of the event.