A total solar eclipse will technically occur on British soil next year, but mainland UK residents will need to board a flight to witness it. The event, slated for August 2, will bring 100% coverage to Gibraltar, a British overseas territory, and has been dubbed 'the eclipse of the century'.
Eclipse of the century
The solar eclipse on Wednesday was the UK's most significant since 1999, with more than 90% of the Sun covered by the Moon. Totality, where the Sun is fully obscured, was visible in parts of Spain and Iceland. Although Brits missed out on totality this year, next year's eclipse will deliver it to Gibraltar and other regions.
Parts of Yemen, Saudi Arabia, North Africa and southern Spain, including Gibraltar, are set to experience the full spectacle. In Gibraltar, totality is expected to last four minutes and 32 seconds, plunging the rocky outcrop into darkness.
Travel and viewing spots
Gibraltar International Airport currently runs services by British Airways and Easyjet from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester and Bristol. Visitors can also arrive by car or train from Spain.
According to Gibraltar Eclipse, several viewing spots offer excellent vantage points. The guide explains: "Whether you decide to watch the eclipse at sea level from Casemates Square, Queensway Quay or even Ocean Village Resort you are guaranteed the experience of a lifetime."
"Another option to get a little closer to the action could be The Skywalk in the upper rock nature reserve, whatever your choice of eclipse viewing destination, you will enjoy a day you will never forget."
Longest eclipse of our lifetimes
Dr. Ryan French, solar astrophysicist at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics in Boulder, Colorado, said next year's solar eclipse "will actually be the longest eclipse in the remainder of our lifetimes." He added: "Crucially, the weather in August all the way along the eclipse path is pretty much guaranteed to be sunny because a lot of it is desert."
