The 2026 solar eclipse is due to begin at around 6pm today (August 12), but supplies of specialist solar eclipse glasses have been snapped up ahead of the event — here are safe solar viewing alternatives
Catherine MacKinlay SEO Writer and Emma O’Neill Content Editor
08:34, 12 Aug 2026Updated 08:53, 12 Aug 2026
(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Solar eclipse glasses have completely sold out nationwide, and securing delivery by this evening appears virtually impossible, even through major online retailers.
Fortunately, those wishing to safely witness the first near-total solar eclipse in Ireland since 1999 can still do so through several alternative methods.
The astronomical event is expected to commence at approximately 6pm today (August 12), reaching its maximum shortly after 7pm before concluding around 8pm. Precise timings will vary based on location throughout the country, reports the Express.
Specialist glasses have been rapidly purchased ahead of the phenomenon, with many suppliers depleting their inventory. Experts have warned against being lured by ‘knock-off’ alternatives or relying on standard sunglasses. Eclipse glasses must comply with the ISO 12312-2 safety standard, as non-certified versions could expose eyes to dangerous solar radiation.
What damage can directly looking at the solar eclipse cause?
NASA cautions against viewing through cameras, telescopes or binoculars while merely wearing eclipse glasses. Technology publication BGR has additionally warned that aiming a smartphone camera straight at the Sun could harm the device, as the powerful rays can become magnified within the camera lens.
The risk was brought into sharp focus following the UK’s 1999 total solar eclipse, when the Royal College of Ophthalmologists documented approximately 70 cases of individuals suffering vision problems after viewing it. Roughly 40% had gazed at the eclipse for under a minute.
Symptoms can take several hours to emerge and include “blurred vision, a central blind or dark spot, distorted vision, reduced colour perception and increased sensitivity to light”.
Young girl looking in a homemade cardboard pinhole projector to see eclipse of the sun(Image: Getty Images)
Mohamed Elalfy, consultant ophthalmologist and president of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, said: “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.”
Mr Elalfy added: “While some people recover over weeks or months, others can be left with permanent visual impairment.”
New Specsavers research found that 10% of Britons have previously looked at a solar eclipse without eye protection, while 19% wrongly believed it was safe to view one through a camera or smartphone screen.
How can you safely watch the eclipse without glasses?
One of the most straightforward alternatives requires nothing more than a kitchen colander. Instead of looking towards the Sun, observers can use its holes to project images of the eclipse onto the ground or another surface.
Imo Bell, a planetarium astronomer at the Royal Observatory, explained: “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.”
A pinhole projector presents another alternative and can be fashioned using a single piece of card, while a more intricate version can be assembled from a cardboard box.
An example of a solar eclipse photo taken with a filter(Image: ERIK S LESSER/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
Trees can even offer a means to witness the spectacle. UK Health Security Agency guidance states that gaps between leaves can cast images of the Sun in much the same manner as the holes in a colander.
Observers should position their backs towards the tree and watch the eclipse materialise in the shadows formed through the gaps.
The UKHSA also cautions that cloud cover does not render it safe to gaze directly at the Sun, as damaging radiation can still harm the retina even when the Sun looks less bright than normal.
Can you watch the solar eclipse through a telescope or camera?
Kyla Black, Boots Opticians director of optical practice, said: “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.”
Regional astronomy facilities may also be organising observation sessions using suitably filtered telescopes, offering an alternative for those who haven’t managed to secure eclipse glasses in time.
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