Millions of people across the UK and Europe witnessed a partial solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, the most dramatic such event in nearly 30 years. The partial eclipse peaked shortly after 19:00 BST, with most UK viewers seeing more than 90% of the Sun covered by the Moon.

Parts of Greenland, Iceland, and Spain experienced a total eclipse, with the Moon completely blocking the Sun for a few minutes. Large crowds at viewing sites across the region reacted with gasps and cheers, according to the BBC.

Path of the Eclipse

The total eclipse began at the northern tip of Siberia in Russia, then curved around the Arctic Ocean, arriving in Iceland in the early evening before sweeping southward. The partial eclipse began at about 18:00 BST in northern Scotland and just before 18:20 on the south coast of England.

At first, the eclipse was imperceptible, but observers with clear skies noticed the Moon slowly covering the Sun. Much of central and southern England and Wales enjoyed perfect clear skies, giving an unrivalled view as the Moon moved across the Sun over the course of an hour.

Viewing Conditions and Crowds

Northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland were cloudier, but that did not stop crowds from gathering at famous landmarks. Astronomy enthusiasts described the event as a reminder of how "amazing" the universe is, according to the BBC.

Solar eclipse glasses were in short supply in the run-up to the event, with high-street shops and online suppliers largely sold out. Some retailers sold them in unexpected places, including a central London bakery, as demand surged.

Many viewers improvised with colanders, cereal boxes, and pieces of paper to project the eclipse safely. Officials and astronomers had repeatedly warned against looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection.

Significance and Context

The last total solar eclipse visible from the UK was in 1999, making this a rare event for the region. The next total eclipse visible from the UK is not expected until 2090, according to astronomical calculations.

Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on Earth. The event on August 12 was notable for its wide visibility across Europe, with millions able to observe at least a partial phase.

Reactions and Expert Commentary

Astronomers and scientists from the BBC Climate and Science team reported that the event drew significant public interest. Many viewers described the experience as "surreal," according to the BBC.

Experts noted that the eclipse provided a unique opportunity for public engagement with science. Schools, museums, and astronomy clubs organized viewing events across the UK and Europe, with many streaming the event online.

What Comes Next

Astronomers will now analyze data from the eclipse, including observations of the Sun's corona and atmospheric effects. The next partial solar eclipse visible from the UK is expected within a few years, though the next total eclipse will not occur until 2090.

For those who missed the event, recordings and photographs from official sources and amateur astronomers are available online. The BBC and other organizations have published guides for safely viewing future solar events.