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Eclipse glasses sell out online ahead of UK solar eclipse
The UK Health Security Agency says safe pairs should carry the ISO 12312-2 standard, and warned buyers against using damaged or uncertified glasses.
Ahead of Wednesday's solar eclipse, demand in the UK has caused specialist eclipse glasses to sell out online, with some customers reporting delivery delays or products arriving too late to use.
The UK Health Security Agency urged eclipse chasers not to look directly at the Sun, saying even brief exposure can cause lasting damage, and advised buying a new certified pair rather than using older glasses. It also said the right lenses should have ISO 12312-2 printed on them and should not be scratched, torn, or damaged.
BBC Business reported that retailers including Royal Museums Greenwich have sold out, citing an unprecedented volume of orders, while some remaining options require higher next-day delivery fees or cannot arrive on time. The scramble has also pushed buyers to social media and online marketplaces, where health officials have cautioned that products may be counterfeit or substandard.
UK astronomers behind the UKEclipse initiative and the American Astronomical Society have both advised checking certified sources, with the AAS encouraging buyers to verify manufacturers that test their products properly and to test glasses in advance if possible.