A rare solar eclipse is set to take place on the evening of Wednesday, August 12, 2026, offering the UK its greatest Sun coverage since the 1999 solar eclipse, according to Royal Museums Greenwich.
What Will Be Visible in the UK?
The UK will experience a partial eclipse, with the Moon obscuring up to 95% of the Sun's light. This will cause an early dusk and a temporary drop in temperature. People in south west England are expected to see the greatest proportion of the Sun covered, with Greater Manchester forecast to see around 91% obscuration.
Total Eclipse Elsewhere
Some parts of Europe, such as Iceland and Northern Spain, along with areas in Spain and Morocco, will experience a total eclipse, where the Sun is 100% obscured, turning day into night.
What Is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun at the right time, blocking the Sun's light either totally or partially. This casts a shadow (umbra) on Earth. According to National Geographic, total eclipses occur every one or two years on average, while partial eclipses are more frequent.
