Londoners are eagerly awaiting this evening's solar eclipse, which is set to be the deepest over the UK since 1999. The eclipse will begin at 6.17pm, reaching its peak between 7.02pm and 7.16pm, when up to 96% of the Sun will be obscured.
Viewing the Eclipse Safely
Hundreds of people have rushed to shops this week in search of specialist eclipse glasses, while others are considering homemade methods of viewing the event. However, eye experts have warned people never to look directly at the Sun, as doing so can cause serious and potentially permanent damage to eyesight. Only approved solar-viewing equipment should be used.
Future Solar Eclipses Visible from the UK
There will be several partial eclipses in the years ahead. On August 2, 2027, a partial eclipse will be visible from the UK during the morning, with around 30% to 45% of the Sun covered. The partial eclipse will begin around 9am in London, reach maximum at 10am, and end around 11am.
Another small partial eclipse will follow on January 26, 2028. But the most dramatic partial eclipse will not arrive until September 3, 2081, when around 99% of the Sun is expected to be obscured.
When Will a Total Eclipse Occur?
For those hoping to witness a total solar eclipse from the UK, the wait will be a long one — more than six decades after tonight's event, on September 23, 2090. The Standard will be running a live stream of this evening's eclipse on its website and YouTube channel.
