Belfast will see around 93.1% of the Sun covered at maximum eclipse, making it one of the deepest eclipses visible from the city in decades
Skywatchers in Belfast are just days away from witnessing one of the most spectacular astronomical events in years, and if you’re planning to watch next week’s solar eclipse, experts say it’s worth buying eclipse glasses before stocks disappear.
Every major eclipse sees demand for certified eclipse glasses surge in the days leading up to the event. At the same time, counterfeit eclipse viewers often appear on online marketplaces, prompting warnings that fake glasses could put people’s eyesight at risk.
On Wednesday, August 12, the Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun, creating a deep partial solar eclipse across Northern Ireland. Belfast will see around 93.1% of the Sun covered at maximum eclipse, making it one of the deepest eclipses visible from the city in decades.
Where to buy eclipse glasses in Belfast
If you still need eclipse glasses, it’s worth shopping sooner rather than later as demand is expected to increase significantly before eclipse day.
Local opticians
Many independent opticians in Belfast stock certified eclipse glasses ahead of major astronomical events. Availability varies between practices, so it is worth contacting your nearest optician before making a special trip.
National optical retailers
Selected branches of Specsavers, Boots Opticians and other major optical chains may also have certified solar viewers available. Stock levels differ by store and are expected to become increasingly limited as August 12 approaches.
Museums and science centres
Science museums, observatories and astronomy visitor centres are among the most reliable places to find genuine eclipse glasses. Gift shops attached to science attractions sometimes stock certified solar viewers in the run-up to major eclipses.
Trusted online retailers
If you’re buying online, stick to established astronomy retailers or reputable science suppliers rather than unfamiliar third-party marketplace sellers. Be sure to check delivery dates so your glasses arrive before the eclipse.
How to spot fake eclipse glasses
Consumer groups have repeatedly warned that counterfeit eclipse glasses appear online before major eclipses, particularly through third-party marketplace sellers.
Experts recommend only using eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers that meet the international safety standard ISO 12312-2:2015(E).
Before buying, check for:
- ISO 12312-2 certification printed on the glasses.
- The manufacturer’s name and contact details.
- Clear instructions explaining safe use.
- Packaging that appears professionally produced and undamaged.
Avoid glasses that are unusually cheap, have no manufacturer details or make exaggerated claims. Ordinary sunglasses, no matter how dark they are, are not safe for looking directly at the Sun.
Never look directly at the Sun
Even though more than 93% of the Sun will be hidden by the Moon, it is never safe to look directly at a partial solar eclipse without certified eye protection.
Looking at the Sun without the correct filters can permanently damage your eyesight, often without causing any immediate pain or warning.
Anyone planning to use binoculars, telescopes or cameras should also ensure they are fitted with specialist solar filters.
No eclipse glasses? You can still watch safely
If you can’t get hold of eclipse glasses before they sell out, there are still safe ways to enjoy the event.
A simple pinhole projector made from a piece of card allows you to project an image of the eclipsed Sun onto another surface without looking directly at it. Many astronomy organisations are also expected to livestream the eclipse online.
What time is the solar eclipse in Belfast?
The eclipse will begin at 6.10pm BST on Wednesday, August 12, as the Moon starts to move across the face of the Sun.
Maximum eclipse will occur at 7.08pm BST, when around 93.1% of the Sun will be covered. At this point, the Sun will sit around 15 degrees above the west-northwest horizon, making an open viewing location especially important.
The partial eclipse will come to an end at 8.03pm BST, shortly before sunset.
Best places to watch the eclipse in Belfast
Because the eclipse takes place during the evening, the best viewing spots will be those with an uninterrupted view towards the west or west-northwest horizon.
Cave Hill is expected to be one of the city’s best vantage points thanks to its elevated views across Belfast. The nearby OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory near Omagh is also expected to attract skywatchers hoping for darker skies and excellent viewing conditions.
Other large open parks and elevated areas around Belfast with clear western views should also provide excellent opportunities to watch what promises to be the most dramatic solar eclipse visible from the city in decades.
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