Best Solar Eclipse In 27 Years To Be Visible Across The UK Next Week
The UK is set to witness its most significant solar eclipse in 27 years next week, with a partial eclipse expected to become visible across the country on Wednesday evening, August 12.
The eclipse will begin shortly after 6pm, with the maximum point expected between approximately 7.05pm and 7.13pm depending on location. More than 90 per cent of the Sun will be covered by the Moon at the peak of the event in parts of the UK, creating a striking change in daylight conditions during the early evening.
The event will be particularly notable because it is expected to be the most visible solar eclipse from the UK since 1999, giving skywatchers across the country an opportunity to see the Moon cover a substantial portion of the Sun.
The eclipse is part of a larger astronomical event taking place on August 12. The Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun, causing the Sun to appear partially covered when viewed from the UK. Although the eclipse will not be total from Britain, the high level of coverage is expected to make it one of the most impressive solar events visible from the country in decades.
The timing of the eclipse means that visibility will depend heavily on local weather conditions. Clear skies and an unobstructed view towards the western part of the sky will provide the best opportunity to see the event, while cloud cover could prevent observers from seeing the eclipse at its most dramatic stage.
The astronomical event will also coincide with the Perseid meteor shower, which reaches its peak around the same period. This means observers could have the opportunity to witness two notable celestial events within a short period, although the bright Moon and evening conditions may affect how clearly meteors can be seen.
Anyone planning to watch the eclipse should take precautions to protect their eyesight. Looking directly at the Sun, even when it is substantially covered by the Moon, can cause serious and permanent eye damage. Properly certified solar viewing glasses or other specialist solar viewing equipment should be used rather than ordinary sunglasses.
The eclipse is expected to attract considerable interest from astronomy enthusiasts, families and photographers across the UK. Weather forecasts will become increasingly important as the event approaches, with clear conditions offering the best chance of seeing the Moon gradually move across the face of the Sun.
Got a news story or tip to share? Contact our editorial team by emailing news@lakelandpost.co.uk or call us directly on 0333 090 2080.