Royal Observatory astronomer reveals what to look for in solar eclipse glasses

The last total solar eclipse which could be seen from the UK was in 1999 – you’re going to want to see this one

Free glasses for observing the total solar eclipse on 12 August can be reserved from 5 August, announced the Ciência Viva agency, warning that recording the astronomical phenomenon damages devices such as cell phones.

A solar eclipse will be visible across the UK next week, and we’ve found some of the best specialist glasses to buy so you can safely watch the astronomical event as it happens