The Perseid meteor shower will peak overnight on Wednesday (August 12) into Thursday, just hours after a partial solar eclipse is visible across the UK, creating a rare double celestial display.
Deepest UK solar eclipse since 1999
On Wednesday evening, the Moon will pass between the Sun and the Earth, covering up to 96 per cent of the Sun. This makes it the deepest solar eclipse visible from the UK since 1999. While observers in parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain will see a total eclipse, people in the UK will see the Moon take a large 'bite' out of the Sun, dimming the evening sky.
Exact timings vary by location. In Manchester, the eclipse begins at 6.13pm and ends at 8.03pm, with maximum coverage at 7.10pm. The best viewing spots are anywhere with a clear view of the western horizon.
Safety and viewing tips
It is vital that anyone watching does not look directly at the Sun at any point. The eclipse can only be safely viewed through solar eclipse glasses with a polarised solar lens, or indirectly through a pinhole viewer.
After sunset, attention turns to the second event. The Perseid meteor shower peaks overnight between August 12 and 13, as the Earth passes through debris left by Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. Tiny fragments burn up in the atmosphere, producing bright streaks known as shooting stars.
Best conditions for meteors
The Perseids are known for producing bright 'fireballs' that can leave glowing trails. This year’s display is expected to be especially good because the eclipse coincides with a new Moon, meaning no bright moonlight will wash out the sky, making fainter meteors easier to spot.
The best chance of seeing the Perseids is after midnight and before dawn, though some meteors may be visible from around 10pm if skies are clear. Experts recommend heading away from street lighting and built-up areas, and allowing around 20 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness.
