Sky watchers in Greater Manchester are preparing for a spectacular partial solar eclipse this Wednesday, August 12, when up to 96 per cent of the Sun will be covered by the Moon. The event will be visible across the whole of the UK, with the South West expected to see the best coverage, but around 90 per cent of the Sun will be obscured from Greater Manchester.
Eclipse timings and viewing tips
In Manchester, the eclipse will begin at 6.13pm and end at 8.03pm, with the maximum eclipse at 7.10pm. The best place to watch is anywhere with a clear view of the western horizon. It is vital that no one looks directly at the Sun at any point during the event.
An eclipse can only be safely viewed through a polarised solar lens or indirectly through a pinhole viewer.
Events in and around Manchester
Several events are taking place in the region for those wanting to enjoy the eclipse atmosphere. Heaton Park Astronomy Group will hold a free viewing event in Heaton Park with solar filtered telescopes and binoculars, plus special eclipse glasses. Members will be near the Stables and Hall to explain what is happening and to help attendees view the eclipse safely.
"Weather permitting, this will be the best solar eclipse since 2015 and there won't be another one this good until 2090!" the group said on its website.
Just outside Greater Manchester in Cheshire, Jodrell Bank is also hosting a viewing event. The observatory will be open late for the eclipse, until 8pm. If skies are clear, it will offer guided solar observing sessions, an immersive Space Dome film to celebrate the Sun, and cyanotype crafting. Bookable viewings of the film will take place at 4.45pm and 5.30pm.
Safety warnings
Those hoping to view the solar eclipse are urged not to look directly at the Sun or to view it through telescopes and binoculars unless they have a special solar filter. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that sunglasses "do not provide adequate protection for viewing a solar eclipse" and should never be used to look directly at the Sun.
"They reduce glare, making it feel more comfortable to look at the Sun for longer, while still allowing harmful solar radiation to reach the retina," the UKHSA wrote in a blog post.
RAS President Professor Jim Wild said: "I would encourage everyone to enjoy the spectacle safely. Never look directly at the Sun without appropriate solar viewing equipment. Certified eclipse glasses, specially designed solar filters for telescopes and binoculars, or indirect methods such as pinhole projectors are all safe ways to observe the event."
With the right precautions, this eclipse promises to be an inspiring experience for seasoned astronomers and first-time skywatchers alike.
