Retailers Overwhelmed by Demand
Eclipse glasses are in high demand at a south Liverpool post office, with the owner struggling to meet orders. The post office, run by Karen Smith, has sold out of the glasses, supplied by a customer, Jim, a retired scientist. Staff are working late to fulfill orders before the eclipse, with the owner describing the last-minute rush as overwhelming.[S1]
The shortage is widespread. Major retailers, convenience stores, and national parks have exhausted their stocks. The Royal Greenwich Observatory sold approximately 15,000 pairs in the past month, a complete sellout, and its viewing event is fully booked, though a free live stream will be available. A convenience store in Whitechapel turned away numerous customers, with owner Ali Raza noting that people traveled from Surrey, Southend-on-Sea, Southampton, and Birmingham to get a pair.[S3][S4][S6]
National Parks and Local Events
Exmoor National Park, a renowned dark sky reserve, experienced an influx of visitors seeking to witness the celestial event, with sales of specialized glasses exceeding 300 pairs. The park recommends viewing locations such as Dunkery Beacon and offers guided walks. Nearby, South Downs National Park is hosting multiple astronomy events, including the eclipse and the Perseid meteor shower.[S3][S6]
Safety Warnings and Historical Context
Experts stress that only ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses are safe, as regular sunglasses offer no protection. Imo Bell, a planetarium astronomer, suggested solar telescopes or household items like colanders as alternatives, but noted glasses are preferable. After the 1999 total eclipse, the Royal College of Ophthalmologists recorded about 70 cases of vision problems, with around 40% having viewed it for less than a minute. The eclipse on August 12 will obscure over 90% of the sun between 6.17pm and 8.06pm, with the fullest views in Devon, Cornwall, and western Pembrokeshire.[S3][S4][S6]
