More than half of Brits (55%) had no idea this week's partial solar eclipse was happening, a poll has found. Nearly half (45%) of Brits are also in the dark about what causes a solar eclipse – with some even convinced the Moon simply 'switches the sun off' like a lightbulb.
Common misconceptions revealed
A poll of 2,000 adults found 18% mistakenly think the moon gets closer to the Earth during this phenomenon and 20% wrongly believe it somehow creates its own light. A further 16% think the Sun moves behind the Moon – when it's the other way around - and 11% wrongly believe it physically changes colour during the celestial event.
The research forms part of VELO's exploration of the Moon and the public fascination that surrounds it, highlighting how one of the most visible objects in our sky remains widely misunderstood.
Beliefs about the Moon's influence
The research found 9% of Brits think the Moon has the ability to control human behaviour, with some convinced full moons cause more crime (6%) and more sleepwalking (3%). Some also believe there is a surge in babies being born around the eclipse (3%).
If these effects aren't enough, 11% suspect their Wi-Fi gets worse during solar eclipses and 13% are certain their phone signal becomes less reliable too.
Interest and preparedness
The study also found 27% would like to visit the Moon, with 59% describing themselves as interested in space, astronomy and celestial events. Although the vast majority (70%) are not confident in their understanding of this subject matter.
Further beliefs some respondents have about the Earth's only natural satellite include the dark side of the Moon never receives sunlight (20%) and it affects luck (four%). While 14% are convinced animals “always” behave strangely during a full moon.
Carried out through OnePoll, the research found anyone hoping to safely enjoy today's eclipse may want to get to the shops quickly - as it emerged 90% don't own a pair of solar eclipse glasses.
It comes ahead of the partial solar eclipse, which is set to take place today [Wednesday August 12], as 68% admitted they know 'next to nothing' about the celestial body.
A spokesperson for the brand said: "We're always looking for ways to spark curiosity and conversation around unexpected topics. The Moon is something we all recognise, yet these findings show there's still a huge amount of mystery and misunderstanding surrounding it."
VELO's spokesperson added: "With today's eclipse putting the Moon firmly in the spotlight, we wanted to explore what people really know about it and uncover some of the myths that continue to capture the public imagination."
