Astronomers at the Royal Observatory Greenwich warned consumers not to use ordinary sunglasses or cheap knock-off glasses to view the upcoming partial solar eclipse [1].
Using non-certified eyewear during a solar event can lead to permanent eye damage because these products often fail to block sufficient solar radiation [1, 3].
The warning comes as the United Kingdom prepares for an event where more than 90% of the Sun will be obscured by the Moon [4]. The eclipse will be visible across the UK between 6:17 pm and 8:06 pm [2].
Experts said that only safety-certified solar eclipse glasses are safe for viewing. They said that ordinary sunglasses do not provide the necessary protection to prevent retinal burns, even when the sun is partially covered.
Supply issues have complicated the search for safe equipment. Safety-certified eclipse glasses have all but sold out online ahead of the event [1]. Some remaining certified options now carry hefty delivery fees for those attempting to receive them in time [1].
This shortage has led to an increase in the sale of unverified glasses on platforms like Amazon [3]. Astronomers said these products may lack the rigorous testing required to ensure they meet international safety standards for solar observation.
Observers are encouraged to verify that any eyewear they purchase specifically lists a safety certification. Without this verification, the risk of permanent vision loss remains high during the peak of the eclipse [1, 3].
“Only safety-certified solar eclipse glasses are safe for viewing the eclipse.”
The surge in demand for specialized eyewear often creates a market gap filled by unregulated third-party sellers. Because solar retinopathy can occur without immediate pain, the reliance on uncertified 'knock-off' glasses poses a significant public health risk during high-visibility celestial events.
