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Nowhere this object, the Croats are desperate: 'I remember '99, they were on every kiosk'
Croatia🔬 ScienceCenter10 days ago

Nowhere this object, the Croats are desperate: 'I remember '99, they were on every kiosk'

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across Croatia on Wednesday, August 12th, just before sunset, with over 90% of the sun's diameter covered by the moon in western parts of the country. The event has sparked concern among citizens, who are struggling to find certified eclipse glasses needed for safe viewing. This contrasts sharply with the 1999 total solar eclipse, during which such glasses were readily available at nearly every kiosk. On Reddit, users expressed frustration over the current lack of availability, recalling creative but dangerous methods used in the past, like looking through old X-ray films or cassette disks. Experts warn against using ordinary sunglasses or welding masks without proper certification, emphasizing the risks of eye damage from harmful radiation. Some users suggested safer alternatives, such as the pinhole projection method. Meanwhile, some speculate that the reduced interest compared to 1999, combined with logistical challenges for retailers, explains the shortage.

Across Europe, millions of people gathered under the sky on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, to witness a rare celestial spectacle, a partial solar eclipse. In Croatia, the event unfolded during sunset, with the moon obscuring nearly 90 percent of the sun’s disk over western regions such as Pula and Poreč. Despite the excitement surrounding the phenomenon, many citizens found themselves scrambling last-minute for certified eclipse glasses, which were largely unavailable in local stores. This shortage sparked frustration among observers who recalled how easily such gear could be obtained during the country's last total solar eclipse in 1999. The partial eclipse was visible throughout Croatia, with the highest coverage occurring in the west, where the moon would obscure around 89 percent of the sun in Poreč and 86 percent in Pula. In Rijeka, approximately 85 percent of the sun would be covered, while in Zagreb, the figure dropped to about 77 percent. As the sun set between 19:53 and 20:17 depending on location, viewers would witness only the initial phase of the eclipse, yet it promised to be visually striking. In preparation for the event, authorities had issued warnings about the dangers of viewing the eclipse without proper eye protection. Certified eclipse glasses are essential because regular sunglasses, welding masks, or other improvised methods offer inadequate protection against harmful solar radiation. Even brief exposure can cause permanent damage to the retina, a part of the eye that lacks pain receptors, meaning individuals might not realize they have sustained injury until it is too late. The demand for certified eclipse glasses surged in the days leading up to the event, creating shortages in several European countries. Retailers, opticians, and online sellers reported selling out quickly, prompting some customers to resort to alternative means of acquiring the necessary equipment. Some turned to social media platforms, where discussions ranged from nostalgic recollections of the 1999 eclipse to alarming stories of people attempting to view the event through unconventional methods such as old x-ray films or CD-ROMs, methods experts warned were unsafe. In Spain, where the path of totality passed through northern regions and the Balearic Islands, the situation was even more intense. Authorities estimated that up to six million people might gather along the eclipse path, with police deploying over 25,000 officers to manage crowds and prevent wildfires due to high temperatures. In Reykjavik, Iceland, where the total eclipse lasted two minutes and thirteen seconds, certified glasses sold out weeks in advance, and thousands of visitors arrived despite travel restrictions and traffic congestion. Meanwhile, search engines recorded a dramatic spike in queries related to eye discomfort following the eclipse. According to reports, searches for terms such as "my eyes hurt" increased by over 5000 percent compared to the previous week, peaking precisely at the moment the sun entered its total eclipse phase in London. Although medical professionals noted that no serious cases of eye damage had been reported immediately after the event, they emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to avoid long-term harm. In Croatia, despite the challenges of obtaining certified glasses, the public remained enthusiastic about the experience. Many expressed nostalgia for the 1999 eclipse, recalling how easily such items were available back then. Others lamented the current lack of awareness and preparedness, suggesting that modern distractions and the ease of access to information had diminished the sense of urgency surrounding such astronomical events. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a surreal twilight across parts of Croatia, the partial eclipse offered a unique opportunity for reflection and appreciation of the cosmos. While the absence of certified glasses posed a challenge for some, the event ultimately served as a reminder of the need for vigilance and education regarding the safe observation of celestial phenomena.

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6 reports

tportal logotportalIndependentCenterFactual 92Objective 8510 days ago
After the eclipse, Google was in full swing: People were searching for one thing en masse.

Nakon pomrčine Sunca, broj internetskih pretraga poveznih s bolnim očima značajno je rastao, prema reportazu na The Guardian. Pretrage kao 'bole me oči' i 'glavobolja' su skočile za više od 5000 posto u posljednjih 24 sati, iako su bile dostupne upozorenja o opasnosti gledanja Sunca bez zaštitnih naočala. Zaštitna oprema je bila vrlo tražena, s nekim trgovcima koji su ostali bez zaliha, dok su neki ljudi ignorirali upozorenja. U Velikoj Britaniji NHS England još nije imao podatke o broju ljudi koji su se javili u bolnice, dok su neki korisnici društvenih mreža opisivali smetnje vida nakon gledanja pomrčine bez zaštite. Stručnjaci su upozoravali da čak i kratki pogled u Sunce može trajno oštetiti vid, uz reference na prošli incident 1999. godine.

Bias read (Center): Čak i ako se razmatra politička dimenzija javnog zdravlja i informiranosti, tekst se fokusira na objektivnom prikazivanju događaja, upozorenja stručnjaka i reakcija javnosti. Nema jasno izraženog političkog slanja ili preferencije za bilo koju stranu. Prikazuje se balans između opasnosti i javnog zv

Why factuality (92): The article gives precise details about the location, timing, and effects of the eclipse, including eyewitness accounts and official statements. It mentions the safety measures taken by authorities and the expected number of visitors. It aligns well with other sources and provides a comprehensive ov

Why objectivity (85): While the article conveys enthusiasm about the event, it also emphasizes the importance of safety and proper equipment. The tone remains professional and informative, though there is a slight emphasis on the positive aspects of the event.

Novi list logoNovi listIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8011 days ago
The skies over Iceland and Spain plunged into total darkness.

The article reports on the total solar eclipse that occurred over Iceland and northern Spain on Wednesday afternoon. The event, described as a rare celestial phenomenon, was visible to millions of people across these regions. In Iceland, the eclipse caused complete darkness, allowing tourists and locals to witness the event. In Spain, authorities warned citizens about the risk of wildfires due to high temperatures, prompting extensive security measures including police deployment and safety campaigns. Officials expected up to six million visitors, primarily in rural areas, and promoted the event as an opportunity to attract tourists to less crowded destinations. Spanish officials emphasized the importance of the event for promoting astronomy education and tourism while ensuring public safety.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the solar eclipse event, covering both the scientific and public interest aspects, as well as the administrative responses by local governments. It includes quotes from various individuals and officials without overtly favoring any particular political or舆论

Why factuality (90): This article provides accurate information about the eclipse, including its visibility, the warnings issued by experts, and the surge in searches for 'bole me oči'. It references specific data points and quotes from medical professionals, aligning with other sources. It also highlights the consequen

Why objectivity (80): The article uses slightly more alarmist language regarding the consequences of unsafe viewing, which could be seen as slightly more cautionary than neutral. However, it still presents the facts objectively and does not show clear bias.

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 8011 days ago
PHOTO Thousands rush into a European country, only hours away from the spectacle: Watch as they prepare

The article reports on the preparation for a total solar eclipse expected over parts of Spain, which is anticipated to attract large crowds. Astronomers predict up to six million people may gather along the path of the eclipse, with the best viewing conditions in Spain compared to other regions like Greenland and Iceland. Many visitors are traveling from distant countries such as Japan and the United States, with estimates suggesting over 300,000 people will head to rural areas for optimal viewing. Authorities in Spain have prepared extensively, including deploying over 24,000 police officers due to concerns about traffic and safety, while health warnings emphasize the need for protective eyewear to prevent eye damage.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about a natural astronomical event without overt ideological framing. It provides balanced reporting on the scientific aspects, public interest, and logistical preparations by authorities, without favoring any political agenda. The focus remains on factual reporting,

Why factuality (88): This article provides detailed information about the eclipse, including the expected number of people attending, police presence, and the impact on eye protection sales. It cites quotes from experts and reports on the situation in Spain. It aligns closely with other sources and includes specific num

Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a neutral tone, reporting facts and expert opinions without evident bias. It presents both the excitement around the event and the necessary precautions, balancing the narrative effectively.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7511 days ago
In Europe, there are huge lines for safety glasses, and Croatia will enjoy a heavenly spectacle.

The article discusses the upcoming total solar eclipse visible across continental Europe on August 12, 2026, which will be the first such event since 1999. It highlights the growing demand for protective eyewear, leading to shortages in countries like Spain and France where the eclipse will be most intense. Experts warn of the risks of viewing the sun without proper equipment and note that some sellers have resorted to using taxi services for urgent deliveries. The article also mentions the alignment of the eclipse with the Perseid meteor shower, promising an unforgettable astronomical event. Croatia, while not experiencing a total eclipse, will witness a significant partial one during sunset, offering dramatic views particularly in western and northwest regions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced overview of the scientific and logistical aspects of the solar eclipse, including expert warnings and market responses. While it emphasizes the importance of safety and regulation, it does not take a clear ideological stance or favor any particular political group. It

Why factuality (85): The article accurately describes the solar eclipse as a rare event visible in continental Europe since 1999. It mentions the partial eclipse in Croatia and the full eclipse in Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain. However, it lacks specific dates and times, relying on general references like '12 A

Why objectivity (75): The tone is enthusiastic and celebratory, using emotionally charged language such as 'uzbuđenje', 'spektakularan', and 'nebeski ples'. While not overtly biased, it leans towards an exciting and awe-inspiring portrayal of the event, which may influence reader perception.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7011 days ago
Everyone warned, but to no avail: After the eclipse, the search for "my eyes hurt" exploded 5000 5,000 percent!

The article discusses the total solar eclipse visible across continental Europe, which occurred after 27 years. It notes that while the event was spectacular, experts had warned of the necessity of eye protection during observation. Dr. Jurica Predović, an ophthalmologist, explained that direct sunlight exposure can cause serious, even permanent damage to vision. Despite widespread media warnings, there was a significant increase in searches for 'bole me oči' (my eyes hurt) on Google, rising by 5000 percent compared to the previous week. The peak search activity coincided with the moment of totality in London time, suggesting many people viewed the eclipse without proper eye protection.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about a natural phenomenon and expert advice without overtly favoring any political stance. While it highlights concerns over public safety during the eclipse, it does not take a partisan position or frame the issue through a political lens. The focus remains on the

Why factuality (85): The article accurately describes the solar eclipse as a rare natural phenomenon visible in parts of Europe. It cites expert opinion from Dr. Jurica Predović regarding eye protection during solar observation. The claim about a 5000% increase in Google searches for 'bole me oči' aligns with the cross-

Why objectivity (70): The article presents the information in a generally informative tone but includes a somewhat sensationalistic note about the surge in Google searches, implying public negligence. This leans slightly towards editorializing rather than purely reporting facts.

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7013 days ago
Nowhere this object, the Croats are desperate: 'I remember '99, they were on every kiosk'

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across Croatia on Wednesday, August 12th, just before sunset, with over 90% of the sun's diameter covered by the moon in western parts of the country. The event has sparked concern among citizens, who are struggling to find certified eclipse glasses needed for safe viewing. This contrasts sharply with the 1999 total solar eclipse, during which such glasses were readily available at nearly every kiosk. On Reddit, users expressed frustration over the current lack of availability, recalling creative but dangerous methods used in the past, like looking through old X-ray films or cassette disks. Experts warn against using ordinary sunglasses or welding masks without proper certification, emphasizing the risks of eye damage from harmful radiation. Some users suggested safer alternatives, such as the pinhole projection method. Meanwhile, some speculate that the reduced interest compared to 1999, combined with logistical challenges for retailers, explains the shortage.

Bias read (Center): The article discusses a scientific phenomenon (solar eclipse) and focuses on public reaction and safety concerns. It does not involve political figures, policies, or partisan issues. The content remains neutral, providing information on the event, public responses, and expert warnings without taking

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the upcoming partial solar eclipse on August 12th and references the 1999 total solar eclipse as a historical comparison. It cites user comments from Reddit discussing the availability of protective eyewear and mentions expert warnings about unsafe viewing methods. The

Why objectivity (70): The tone leans towards highlighting nostalgia and public concern, particularly through the lens of Reddit discussions. While informative, it emphasizes the panic and misinformation rather than presenting a strictly neutral perspective. The focus on user reactions may introduce some bias.

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