On Wednesday, August 12, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across the UK, marking the most significant event of its kind since 1999. The moon will cover approximately 90% to 96% of the sun at its peak, creating a rare celestial spectacle.
Timing and Visibility
Shortly after 6pm, the moon will begin to take a bite out of the sun, leaving a downward-facing crescent that will slowly become more slender over the next hour, according to Royal Museums Greenwich. The eclipse is expected to last two hours.
Exeter will witness the greatest eclipse in the UK, with the moon forecast to cover 94% of the sun. It will also be the last city to see the peak, at 7.15pm. London and Cardiff will both see the eclipse at 7.13pm, but Cardiff will enjoy greater coverage at 93.2%, compared to 91.4% in London.
City-by-City Coverage
- Edinburgh: 90.7% - 7.05 PM
- Glasgow: 91.4% - 7.06 PM
- Belfast: 93.1% - 7.08 PM
- Leeds: 90.8% - 7.09 PM
- Manchester: 91.4% - 7.10 PM
- Liverpool: 91.8% - 7.10 PM
- Sheffield: 91% - 7.10 PM
- Birmingham: 91.8% - 7.11 PM
- Cardiff: 93.2% - 7.13 PM
- London: 91.4% - 7.13 PM
- Exeter: 94% - 7.15 PM
Edinburgh will be the first city in the UK to see the eclipse, with the event expected to occur at 7.05pm, followed by Glasgow at 7.06pm.
Viewing Tips
Those wanting to catch a glimpse of the partial eclipse should look for a viewing point with an uninterrupted view towards the west or west-north-west. Elevated ground without nearby buildings and trees is recommended. In London, the best viewing platforms are Hampstead Heath, Primrose Hill, and the Royal Greenwich Observatory.
Safety Precautions
It's important never to look directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, as doing so can severely damage your eyes. The safest way to view the event is by using certified eclipse glasses that meet the international safety standard (ISO 12312-2) or by using specially designed solar filters on telescopes, binoculars, or cameras. Ensure your glasses have the safety certification 'ISO 12312-2' or 'ISO 12312-2:2015' printed on them.
