Solar eclipse sparks scramble for protective glasses across Europe

A rare total solar eclipse is triggering a frantic rush to acquire protective eyewear across Europe, as pharmacies, opticians and other retailers struggle to keep up with demand. In Spain, the path of totality passes through parts of the country, making it difficult for residents to find certified protective glasses. Madrid's National Museum of Natural Sciences has already exhausted its supply of glasses, offering them for free as part of a government campaign to distribute two million pairs.

Opticians in Barcelona and Brussels are similarly running low on stock, with some customers resorting to purchasing glasses from specialty stores or waiting for future shipments. Doctors warn that looking directly at the Sun during a solar eclipse can harm the retina, leading to potential vision damage. In response to the shortage, some pharmacies are charging higher prices for glasses, while others are placing large orders early to secure supplies. Authorities in Spain have withdrawn six models of glasses from the market due to safety concerns.