Experts have warned that uncertified or ‘knock-off’ glasses can still allow harmful solar radiation to reach the retina, potentially causing permanent vision damage
Those eagerly anticipating one of the most spectacular solar eclipses in nearly 30 years have been cautioned about the dangers of counterfeit protective eyewear. Astronomy enthusiasts are preparing for Wednesday’s eclipse, yet safety-approved glasses have almost completely sold out across online retailers.
Eye specialists have strongly advised against looking directly at the Sun, warning that even momentary exposure can cause permanent damage to eyesight. Between 6.17pm and 8.06pm on August 12, over 90% of the Sun will be blocked by the Moon, making it the most breathtaking celestial event since the total eclipse of 1999.
Experts stress that only solar eclipse glasses bearing ISO 12312-2 certification provide adequate eye protection for viewing the eclipse. Unfortunately, these have largely disappeared from online shelves ahead of the event, with remaining stock often accompanied by steep delivery charges to arrive in time.
Specialists have emphasised that so-called eclipse glasses lacking the required safety certification, or standard sunglasses regardless of their darkness, must never be used to observe an eclipse. While such eyewear reduces glare and creates a deceptive sense of comfort when gazing at the Sun, harmful solar radiation can still penetrate the retina unchecked.
In the aftermath of the 1999 total solar eclipse, the Royal College of Ophthalmologists documented approximately 70 cases of individuals suffering visual impairment following the event.
Around 40% had looked at it for less than a minute. Mohamed Elalfy, a consultant ophthalmologist and president of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, explained: “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. Symptoms may only become apparent several hours later and can include blurred vision, a central blind or dark spot, distorted vision, reduced colour perception and increased sensitivity to light.
“While some people recover over weeks or months, others can be left with permanent visual impairment.”
Kyla Black, Boots Opticians director of optical practice, advised parents to exercise “particularly careful” judgement when allowing children to observe the eclipse, while cautioning that certain homemade filters pose significant risks.
“If you’re purchasing specially made eclipse glasses, make sure to double check that they are undamaged before use as even a glimpse of damage could have an impact on your eyesight,” she stated.
“It’s a common myth that wearing multiple pairs of sunglasses can protect you from any harmful UV light – this is untrue and should be avoided at all costs as only purpose-built eclipse glasses can allow you to watch an eclipse.”
Ms Black continued: “Although a fun idea for many may be to make DIY filters and pinhole projectors out of cereal boxes, this can also be dangerous. Objects such as smoked glass, colour film, floppy disks, X-ray film, and dark sunglasses are unable to block invisible infrared and ultraviolet rays, potentially leading to damage to your eyesight.
“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.”
The Royal Observatory Greenwich has likewise cautioned the public that ordinary sunglasses do not provide adequate protection when observing the celestial event.
Imo Bell, a planetarium astronomer at the observatory, previously told the Press Association: “It’s not a total eclipse, but over 90% is really exciting. 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. You can’t just go out and expect to have a look, because it’s really dangerous for your eyes.
“So, you can use solar eclipse glasses, which are very, very different from sunglasses – they block out so much light that you can’t see anything through them except the Sun, because that’s how much light they need to block for the damaging light of the Sun to be safe to view. Ideally a solar telescope is an amazing way to witness it, and if you don’t have one of them then you can look into whether your local astronomy society is doing any events.
“And if all else fails, 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.”
As an additional treat for astronomy enthusiasts, the yearly Perseid meteor shower hits its peak on the night of 12-13 August. The spectacle occurs as Earth passes through a trail of debris left in the wake of Comet Swift-Tuttle.
Each minuscule particle collides with Earth’s atmosphere at approximately 60 kilometres per second, disintegrating in a fleeting burst that resembles a shooting star.
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