Eclipse chasers scramble for glasses as stocks run low

As the UK anticipates its most significant solar eclipse since 1999, a frantic search for specialized viewing glasses has left many shelves bare. Health officials have underscored the critical need for these glasses to safely observe Wednesday's celestial event.

In a central London bakery, an unexpected item has been flying off the shelves: eclipse glasses. A staff member informed the BBC, "I've sold, like, 100 this morning." These aren't baked goods, but the essential eyewear for those hoping to catch a safe glimpse of the eclipse.

Experts have issued stern warnings against looking directly at the sun, even for brief periods, as it can cause permanent eye damage. They strongly recommend using specialist glasses. However, finding pairs that meet safety specifications has become a challenge. Online, most compliant glasses are sold out, with remaining stock either incurring substantial next-day delivery fees or being unable to arrive in time.

Even the Royal Museums Greenwich, a retailer endorsed by UK health officials, has exhausted its supply, attributing it to an "unprecedented volume" of orders. One customer, waiting to purchase three pairs at the bakery on Monday, told BBC Radio 4's PM programme, "I Googled 'where can I get eclipse glasses but not through the post', because I realised I was too late." Another customer added, "People have been struggling to find them all over."

With approximately 90% of the Sun expected to be obscured by the Moon, this will be the UK's most significant eclipse in 27 years. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHA) advises that appropriate glasses should bear the international safety standard ISO 12312-2 and have undamaged lenses. The UKHA also cautioned against online purchases, as the rush for safe spectacles has led enthusiasts to seek advice on social media.

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists has warned that even a small amount of sunlight penetrating the glasses can harm the eyes. They suggest that the safest viewing method is indirect, such as through a livestream or broadcast. Mohamed Elalfy, president of the college, explained, "Crucially, the retina has no pain receptors, so people will not feel the damage as it happens." The college documented around 70 cases of vision problems after the 1999 total solar eclipse, with approximately 40% of those affected having looked at it for less than a minute.

Imo Bell, a planetarium astronomer at The Royal Observatory Greenwich, emphasized to the PA news agency that specialist glasses are "very, very different" from regular sunglasses, which offer no protection. She stated, "They block out so much light that you can't see anything through them except the Sun." Bell added, "We're not going to get one this good for a really long time. So, it's important not to miss it, and to be prepared."