The UK will experience a partial solar eclipse on August 12, with the moon blocking up to 90% of natural daylight in the early evening. According to Royal Museums Greenwich, the next total solar eclipse visible from the UK won't occur until 2090, making this a rare celestial event.
Safety First: Certified Glasses Essential
The most critical item is certified solar eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses, no matter how expensive, are not safe. Intense solar ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays can permanently damage retinal cells, often without immediate pain because there are no pain receptors at the back of the eyes.
Dr Stephen Hannan, Clinical Services Director at Optical Express, warns: 'Never remove eclipse glasses while facing the sun, even for a moment, and only take them off once you’ve looked away completely. It only takes a few seconds of direct, unprotected viewing to damage your vision.'
Look for the international safety standard ISO 12312-2 on any solar specs you buy.
Protect Your Devices and Skin
For those planning to capture photos or videos, solar filters are needed to protect camera lenses and ensure clear visuals. The eclipse is expected to run from 6.17pm to 8.06pm, so keeping SPF handy and wearing a hat or shade is advisable while waiting.
Essential Gear for Your Viewing Party
Here are some recommended products to make your eclipse viewing comfortable and safe:
- Helioclipse Solar Eclipse Glasses – ISO 12312-2 certified, sold in packs from 6 to 100, with smartphone filters included. £17.95.
- Celestron EclipSmart Binoculars – With permanent solar filters, ideal for portable viewing. £91.50.
- LIVIVO 4 Person Picnic Backpack Set – Includes cutlery, crockery, wine glasses, and a blanket. £17.99 (was £34.99).
- Keter Go Bar 16L Portable Cooler Table – Holds up to 15 cans and doubles as a side table. £34.20.
- World Picnic Blanket – A stylish, portable blanket for outdoor events. £24.99.
- Dunelm Three Rivers Foldable Chair – Lightweight, showerproof, with back pocket. £39.
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Invisible Lotion Sunscreen SPF50 – Water and sweat-resistant, leaves no white cast. £15.99.
With these essentials, you'll be ready to enjoy the celestial show safely. Here's hoping for clear skies!
