On 12 August 2026, a rare sight will darken the evening sky: a partial solar eclipse will be visible across most of the UK. Many people will be keen to look up and see the moon blocking up to 90% of the sun. However, it is important to remember that looking directly at the sun can cause serious and permanent eye damage, even during a partial eclipse.
One of the most common misconceptions is that a partial eclipse makes it safe to look at the sun. In reality, even during an eclipse the sun remains bright enough to damage the delicate tissues of the eye.
Why looking at the sun is dangerous: solar retinopathy
The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that allows us to see. When you look directly at the sun, the bright light and ultraviolet radiation can damage retinal cells. This condition is known as solar retinopathy.
Solar retinopathy can develop after only a short period of exposure. The damage may not be painful, so people often do not realise there is a problem until hours later.
Symptoms can include blurred vision, distorted vision, reduced colour perception, difficulty reading, or a dark spot in the centre of vision. In some cases, the effects improve over time, but permanent vision loss can occur in some cases.
Sunglasses are not enough
Many people assume that ordinary sunglasses will protect their eyes. Properly accredited UV sunglasses are essential for everyday wear to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful effects.
Unfortunately, sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection against looking directly at the sun, particularly for prolonged periods.
How to view the eclipse safely
If you wish to observe the eclipse, only use specially designed solar viewing glasses. These can be bought cheaply online, but check they are from a reputable supplier and meet recognised international safety standards.
Alternatively, indirect viewing methods, such as pinhole projectors, allow you to enjoy the eclipse without looking directly at the sun.
When to seek urgent medical advice
If you have looked at the sun and subsequently develop any of the following symptoms, you should seek urgent medical attention:
Eye pain
Redness
Grittiness or irritation
Blurred vision
Distorted vision
New dark spots in your vision
Sudden changes in sight
Prompt assessment can help identify the cause of your symptoms and ensure appropriate treatment or monitoring.
Remember
Never look directly at the sun, even during an eclipse.
Regular sunglasses are not enough to protect your eyes. Use approved eclipse-viewing equipment or indirect viewing methods instead.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience eye symptoms after looking at the sun.
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