3 ways to safely watch the solar eclipse - including using one common household itemThe solar eclipse will be the most dramatic in the UK since 1999View Image Special glasses are required to protect the eyes. (Image: Getty)Brits will have the opportunity to observe a rare partial solar eclipse on Wednesday, August 12 though specialists have issued warnings about potential hazards. To prevent this, it's advisable to use ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses, which permit only minimal light transmission, reports the Express. ‌Authentic eclipse glasses will display the safety certification "ISO 12312-2" or "ISO 12312-2:2015" printed on them. Royal Museums Greenwich has provided guidance on creating one using a cardboard box, white paper, foil and a pin.