A partial solar eclipse will take place next Wednesday, August 12, when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, briefly blocking sunlight. The Royal Greenwich Observatory has described it as the most dramatic solar eclipse in the UK since 1999, with 90 to 96% of the Sun obscured by the Moon.
Best viewing locations
In the UK, the best spots are London at 90% coverage, Pembrokeshire at 94%, and Cornwall at 95%. Those on the south-western tip of Ireland might see almost 97.5% coverage, making it the best spot in the British Isles. Spectators in parts of Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain will experience a total eclipse.
Timing of the eclipse
Edinburgh and Glasgow will reach the eclipse maximum first, at 7.05pm, followed by Galway, Dublin, Manchester, and Liverpool at 7.10pm. Norwich and Birmingham will see maximum at 7.11pm, London, Bristol, and Cardiff at 7.12pm, and Truro last at 7.16pm. The partial eclipse will end between 8pm and 8.10pm, depending on location.
Safety warnings
Looking directly at the eclipse can damage the retina painlessly, so damage may go unnoticed until it's too late. Standard sunglasses are not sufficient protection and can be more dangerous, as reduced glare may encourage longer staring. Purpose-made eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers from trusted retailers are recommended; beware of online products that fail to meet standards.
Eclipse season and lunar eclipse
Solar and lunar eclipses occur during an 'eclipse season' when Earth's orbit is nearest to the Sun, lasting 31 to 37 days and occurring twice a year. A new Moon during this period can produce a solar eclipse. Two weeks later, a full Moon will result in a partial lunar eclipse on August 28. As it will be close to dawn, the Moon will be low on the horizon, so an elevated spot with an unobstructed view to the southwest is advised for the best view.
