The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning about counterfeit solar eclipse glasses as the UK prepares for a rare partial solar eclipse on August 12. With over 90 per cent of the sun expected to be covered by the moon, many Scots will be looking to the skies, but officials stress the importance of using genuine eye protection.
Safety certification required
In a post on X, the UKHSA advised: "On 12 August, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across the UK. If you want to use eclipse glasses make sure they are genuine with specially designed filters that meet the international safety standard." Genuine glasses should display the safety certification 'ISO 12312-2' or 'ISO 12312-2:2015(E)'. If this code is absent, the glasses are not safe to use.
The agency also warned against using old or damaged glasses, noting that creased or scratched lenses may have compromised filtering properties. "Don't take risks," the UKHSA stated, urging observers to purchase new glasses for the event.
Where to find genuine glasses
Authentic solar eclipse glasses are most likely to be available at museums, observatories, national and independent opticians, and trusted online astronomy retailers. However, supply may vary by location.
For those unable to obtain glasses, a pinhole projector offers a safe alternative. This can be made using two pieces of paper, a colander, or even tree leaves, which act as natural pinhole projectors by casting shadows on the ground.
Eclipse details
The next total solar eclipse visible in the UK is not expected until 2090, according to the Royal Astronomical Society. On August 12, Barra is expected to see the greatest coverage at 93 per cent, while the Met Office predicts 90.74 per cent coverage in Inverness and 90.71 per cent in Edinburgh.
