Rush to Find Solar Eclipse Glasses as UK High Street Stocks Run Short A frantic search is underway across the UK to secure solar eclipse glasses ahead of Wednesday’s partial solar eclipse, as high street retailers and online platforms report significant shortages. Many shoppers are finding it difficult to purchase the necessary protective eyewear until late in the week, leaving little time to prepare for the celestial event. The Royal Observatory Greenwich confirmed it has sold out of solar eclipse glasses, both online and in its physical locations, citing an “unprecedented volume of orders.” A spokesperson stated, “We have sold out of solar eclipse glasses, both online and in our shops, due to an unprecedented volume of orders.” Online retailers like Amazon and physical stores such as Robert Dyas have seen their inventory depleted, with messages like “out of stock” or “free delivery Thursday 13 August” appearing on product pages. Emma, a resident of Tonbridge in Kent, described her struggle to obtain glasses for herself and her three relatives. She noted that local opticians were unhelpful, with one assistant reportedly dismissing her request with irritation. “They sounded really angry. I said: ‘I’m calling to see if you have any glasses for the …’ The assistant interrupted and said no and hung up.” Despite the challenges, Emma managed to secure a pair from a friend whose mother had purchased a multipack in advance, though she warned that sharing would be necessary if more pairs were unavailable. Experts suggest the shortage is not due to a lack of supply but rather a last-minute rush by the public. Neill Sanders, founder of Go Stargazing and UK coordinator for Astronomers Without Borders, emphasized that many people had not planned ahead.#amazon #uk #royal_observatory_greenwich #robert_dyas #tonbridge
