Total Solar Eclipse — 12 August 2026
On 12 August 2026, Europe saw its first total solar eclipse since 1999. From Denmark, 80–88% of the Sun was covered low on the evening sky — and in Iceland and Spain, day turned to night.
Seen from United Kingdom
From United Kingdom, the eclipse is PARTIAL: about 95% of the Sun is covered (estimate). Find a spot with a clear view west — and only look through certified eclipse glasses.
Timeline for United Kingdom (approx. times)
Where the eclipse was TOTAL
Up to about 2 minutes of total darkness.
The first total solar eclipse over Europe since 1999. The next one comes on 2 August 2027, but passes south of Europe.
Protect your eyes — important!
- NEVER look directly at the Sun without certified eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2).
- Ordinary sunglasses do NOT protect you.
- Binoculars or telescopes require a dedicated solar filter.
Bonus: the Perseids peak the same night
The Perseid meteor shower peaks that very night — up to 50–100 shooting stars per hour after darkness falls.
The big question of the day was: would the sky be clear?
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