The solar eclipse: a spectacular moment and a reminder about eye safety

The UK recently experienced a rare partial solar eclipse on 12 August 2026, giving people across the country the opportunity to witness a fascinating astronomical event. At its peak, shortly after 7.00pm, around 88-96% of the sun was obscured by the moon. It was the most significant solar eclipse visible from the UK since the total eclipse in 1999. 

While solar eclipses are exciting to watch, they also serve as an important reminder of the need to protect our eyes. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause serious and potentially permanent eye damage. It is never safe to look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Ordinary sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection and should never be used for viewing an eclipse.  

This type of eye damage can affect anyone, whether or not they have glaucoma. It is also important to remember that eye damage may not always be noticeable straight away. Symptoms can take several hours to become apparent, so people should remain alert for any changes to their vision after viewing the sun. 

People who develop any of the following symptoms after having looked at the sun, should seek urgent medical advice: 

• Eye pain 

• Red eyes 

• A gritty feeling in the eye 

• Blurry or distorted vision 

• Dark spots in your vision 

• Sudden changes in vision 

People viewing any future eclipses, should use certified eclipse glasses or view it indirectly using a pinhole projector. These methods provide a safe way to enjoy an eclipse without risking damage to your eyes.