Londoners Scramble for Eclipse Glasses as Supply Runs Dry

With the much-anticipated solar eclipse set to grace

With the much-anticipated solar eclipse set to grace the skies on Wednesday, London has been swept up in a last-minute rush for protective eyewear. Retailers across the city report that shelves have been stripped bare, while online sellers are hiking prices as demand outstrips supply.

The frenzy has been building for days, but the final 48 hours have seen a surge in panic buying. Opticians, science museums, and even local convenience stores have been inundated with inquiries from people desperate to witness the celestial spectacle safely. Several major chains confirmed that their entire stock of eclipse glasses was sold out by Monday afternoon, with no restocks expected before the event.

This scarcity has spawned a secondary market where prices have tripled or quadrupled. On popular e-commerce platforms, some sellers are offering single pairs for as much as £15, compared to the usual retail price of £2-3. Experts warn that counterfeits are circulating, and urge buyers to verify that their glasses carry the ISO 12312-2 safety standard to prevent eye damage.

Amid the chaos, astronomers and health officials are

Amid the chaos, astronomers and health officials are reminding the public that ordinary sunglasses, even with high UV protection, are not sufficient for viewing the eclipse directly. They recommend using certified viewers or indirect methods, such as pinhole projectors, which can be made at home with simple materials.

The eclipse, which will be partially visible from London, is expected to draw large crowds to parks and open spaces, weather permitting. Local councils have set up viewing stations with free safety glasses in some areas, but these have already seen long queues. For those who miss out, experts advise tuning into live streams online or waiting for the next major eclipse, which is predicted for 2026.