Mackey Opticians Carrickfergus

11/08/2026

🌖 Excited for the upcoming solar eclipse? Here is how to enjoy it safely!

Looking forward to catching a glimpse of the moon passing in front of the sun? It is set to be a fantastic sight, but before you head outside, here is a quick friendly reminder from your team at Mackey Opticians!

Why direct viewing can be risky: Looking directly at the sun—even during an eclipse or through regular sunglasses, cameras, or binoculars—can cause permanent damage to your eyesight. Because the back of your eye (the retina) has no pain receptors, damage can happen instantly without you feeling a thing.

A quick warning on phone cameras: Taking photos or videos of the sun with your smartphone carries risks too:

For your phone: Smartphone lenses act like miniature magnifying glasses. Pointing them straight at the sun can concentrate heat and light, permanently burning out your camera’s image sensor.

For your eyes: Lining up a shot often tempts people to look up past or around the screen directly into the sun without realizing it.

Please note: Mackey Opticians does not supply or sell certified eclipse glasses or camera solar filters.

Safe & fun ways to watch without special gear: You don’t need specialized equipment to enjoy the magic! Try these safe indirect viewing methods using everyday household items:

Pinhole Viewer: Poke a small hole in a piece of card and let the sunlight project through it onto a second piece of card behind it.

The Colander Trick: Hold a kitchen colander over a piece of white paper—you’ll see dozens of tiny eclipse shadows projected onto the sheet!

Nature’s Projector: Look at the shadow cast on the ground by light passing through tree leaves.

Watch a Live Stream: Grab a cup of tea and watch the sky coverage online from the comfort of your sofa.

We're here for you: If you have any concerns about your eyes after viewing the solar eclipse, please contact your local Mackey Opticians branch and we will be happy to help.

For full detailed safety guidelines, check out the official advice from the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) here: 👉 https://www.abdo.org.uk/news/safety-tips-for-viewing-eclipse/

06/08/2026

If you have glaucoma or know someone who is suffering with glaucoma, please look at this survey being run by Glaucoma UK.

07/05/2026

Turning 60 has its perks!

Did you know that any one over 60 years old is automatically entitled to a free NHS eye exam, every 2 years or depending on how often your optometrist recommends your routine check ups?

No need to fill out forms, or lengthy application forms to recieve it, just book an appointment below through the link below:
https://www.mackeyopticians.com/book-an-appointment/

If you're new to us we have 14 branches! Find you nearest here:
https://www.mackeyopticians.com/branch-locator/

02/04/2026

Many thanks for all the kind words

Please book an appointment online…

12/03/2026

04/03/2026

See the Season Ahead Clearly 👓🌷

As February winds down, brighter days and blooming seasons are just around the corner! Now’s the ideal time to make sure your eyes are ready to take in every colour and detail that spring has to offer.

At Mackey Opticians, your vision is our focus all year long. Whether you’re due for your routine eye exam or have noticed small changes in your sight, our expert teams across all 14 practices are here to help.

We’ve got appointment availability in the coming weeks, so it’s easy to fit your eye check-in around your plans.

Book your appointment by giving us a call or visiting our website to find your nearest Mackey Opticians practice.

Step into spring with fresh, focused vision and confidence in your eye health.

17/12/2025