With solar eclipse glasses sold out, experts stress eye safety and viewing methods
Category: Health
As the clock ticks down to August 12, 2026, excitement is building across the UK for a rare astronomical event: a partial solar eclipse that promises to cover more than 90% of the Sun in many areas. This eclipse is being hailed as the most complete solar eclipse the UK has seen since 1999, with astronomers noting that another of this magnitude won’t occur until 2081. But as many prepare to gaze at the sky, a pressing question hangs: how can you safely view the eclipse?
With just days to go, many citizens have found themselves scrambling to secure solar eclipse glasses. Reports indicate that shops across the UK are experiencing a surge in demand, leading to widespread shortages. The Royal Observatory Greenwich, one of the most renowned astronomical institutions in the country, has reported an "unprecedented volume of solar eclipse glasses orders." They have announced that a limited supply will be available at their onsite shops on August 11 and 12, but with a strict limit of five pairs per person.
On a Monday morning leading up to the eclipse, conversations around solar eclipse glasses were rampant in offices and homes alike. Many individuals, unprepared for the event, found themselves disappointed after visiting local shops only to discover that glasses were sold out. A colleague at the BBC Sky at Night Magazine office recounted their futile search, stating that even local opticians had run out. This trend is echoed by numerous reports of similar experiences across the country.
According to Jake Foster, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, this eclipse is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. He emphasized, “This is the best solar eclipse the UK has seen since 1999, and we won’t see another eclipse of this magnitude until 2081.” With the partial eclipse set to begin just after 6 PM BST, the urgency to find proper eyewear is at an all-time high.
Viewing a solar eclipse without appropriate protection can lead to serious eye damage. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued warnings highlighting that permanent damage can occur within seconds if precautions are not followed. “During an eclipse, the sun appears dimmer than usual. This makes it easier to look at directly – and that’s precisely the problem,” they noted. The agency reported that the reduced brightness can override the body's natural reflex to look away, allowing intense sunlight to reach and damage the retina.
Dr. Jody Piltz-Seymour, an ophthalmologist and director of the Glaucoma Care Center at Valley Eye Professionals, explained the severity of the risk. “Looking directly at a solar eclipse can cause solar retinopathy, which can result in permanent blind spots and irreversible vision loss,” she said. After the 1999 total solar eclipse, around 70 cases of vision problems were reported in the UK, with many viewers having looked at the eclipse for less than a minute.
Experts recommend using only solar eclipse glasses that comply with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. These glasses block 99.999% of intense visible light from the sun, making them safe for viewing. Dr. Piltz-Seymour emphasized, “Regular sunglasses cannot be used to view an eclipse, and doing so would be extremely dangerous.” She advises that the glasses should be checked for any damage such as scratches or loose lenses before use. If you can’t find eclipse glasses, there are indirect viewing methods that can be employed.
For those unable to secure glasses in time, the Royal Observatory Greenwich and other experts suggest alternative viewing methods. Using household items with small round holes, such as a colander or a piece of paper with a small hole poked in it, can project an image of the eclipse onto a flat surface. “Don’t look at the sun itself but instead at the shadow that’s being produced – you should be able to see the shape of the eclipse within it,” said Jake Foster.
As millions prepare to witness this celestial event, it’s important to adhere to safety protocols. The eclipse is set to reach its maximum coverage just after 7 PM BST, with the entire event concluding shortly after 8 PM BST. Cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London will experience varying degrees of coverage, with up to 93.1% of the Sun obscured in some areas.
NASA will provide live streams of the eclipse for those who prefer to watch from home or who are unable to secure protective glasses. This option allows everyone to enjoy the spectacle without risking their eyesight. For those venturing outside, it’s imperative to wear solar eclipse glasses at all times during the event. Dr. Piltz-Seymour advises, “Be sure to put your glasses on before looking up at the sun and remove them only after looking away from the sun.”
As the day approaches, the excitement and anticipation grow. This partial solar eclipse is not just a scientific marvel but an event that brings communities together in shared wonder. Whether you're among the lucky ones who secured a pair of eclipse glasses or plan to view it indirectly, the moment is sure to be unforgettable. So, gather your friends and family, prepare for a spectacular view, and enjoy this remarkable event safely!