Solar eclipse glasses have become completely unavailable across Wales, and it seems virtually impossible to secure delivery by this evening even through major online retailers. Nevertheless, those hoping to witness the first near-total solar eclipse in the UK since 1999 can still do so safely using several alternative methods.
Eclipse timing and eyewear shortage
The astronomical phenomenon is expected to commence at approximately 6pm today (August 12), reaching its maximum shortly after 7pm before concluding at around 8pm. Precise timings will vary depending on your location across the country.
Stocks of specialist eyewear have been depleted ahead of the event, with convenience stores, national parks and the Royal Observatory Greenwich all running out. The observatory alone has shifted roughly 15,000 pairs over the past month.
Experts have cautioned people against being lured by "knock-off" alternatives or resorting to ordinary sunglasses. Eclipse glasses must comply with the ISO 12312-2 safety standard, with uncertified versions potentially exposing eyes to damaging solar radiation, reports the Express.
Risks of looking directly at the eclipse
Mohamed Elalfy, consultant ophthalmologist and president of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, said: "The safest way to enjoy the eclipse is to observe it indirectly, such as by watching a live broadcast."
Looking directly at the Sun during a solar eclipse can cause damage to the retina, potentially damaging the cells responsible for sharp central vision. Crucially, the retina has no pain receptors, so people will not feel the damage as it happens.
NASA cautions against viewing the eclipse through cameras, telescopes or binoculars while simply wearing eclipse glasses. Tech news outlet BGR has additionally warned that directing a smartphone camera straight at the Sun risks damaging the device, as the powerful rays can become concentrated within the camera lens.
The risks were thrown into sharp focus following the UK's 1999 total solar eclipse, when the Royal College of Ophthalmologists recorded approximately 70 cases of individuals reporting vision difficulties afterwards. Notably, around 40% had observed the eclipse for under a minute.
Symptoms may take several hours to manifest and include "blurred vision, a central blind or dark spot, distorted vision, reduced colour perception and increased sensitivity to light".
Mr Elalfy added: "While some people recover over weeks or months, others can be left with permanent visual impairment."
New Specsavers research found that 10% of Britons have previously viewed a solar eclipse without any eye protection, while 19% incorrectly believed it was safe to watch one through a camera or smartphone screen.
Safe ways to watch the eclipse without glasses
One of the most straightforward alternatives requires nothing more than an ordinary kitchen colander. Rather than gazing directly towards the Sun, observers can use its perforations to cast images of the eclipse onto the ground or another flat surface.
Imo Bell, a planetarium astronomer at the Royal Observatory, explained: "You can project the image of the eclipse using a household item like a colander which has lots of holes in - point the colander towards the Sun with your back facing it, and in the shadow of the colander you'll be able to see the eclipse in the holes, which is really cool."
A pinhole projector presents another alternative and can be fashioned using a single piece of card, while a more sophisticated version can be assembled from a cardboard box.
Even trees can offer a means to witness the spectacle. UK Health Security Agency guidance states that gaps between leaves can cast images of the Sun in much the same manner as the perforations in a colander. Observers should position themselves with their backs to the tree and watch the eclipse materialise in the shadows formed through the gaps.
Using telescopes and cameras safely
Kyla Black, Boots Opticians director of optical practice, said: "Budding astronomers who will be looking through cameras, binoculars or telescopes at the eclipse must make sure they have approved solar filters attached."
"If you're not sure your telescope does, then contact the maker of the product to ensure you know you'll be safe."
Local astronomy centres might also be organising viewing sessions with properly filtered telescopes, offering an alternative for those who have been unable to secure eclipse glasses in time.
