Ol' Blighty

UK Prepares for Rarest Solar Eclipse in 54 Years

Over 90% of the Sun will be obscured next Wednesday, prompting safety warnings and varied weather forecasts.

A crescent sun partially obscured by an eclipse, silhouetting a stone monument.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Sarah Connor
Sarah Connor
The UK will witness its most significant solar eclipse in 54 years next Wednesday, August 12.
Imo Bell highlighted the unique viewing opportunity, noting, "It’ll be a nice, long event which is really exciting."
Bell further explained that the Sun will be quite close to the western horizon as it sets, making a clear view of that direction crucial.
The Royal Greenwich Observatory has issued a critical warning: standard sunglasses are not safe for viewing the solar eclipse.

You can’t just go out and expect to have a look because it’s really dangerous for your eyes.

Imo Bell
Imo Bell underscored the danger, stating, "You can’t just go out and expect to have a look because it’s really dangerous for your eyes."
Bell advised using specialized solar eclipse glasses, distinctly different from sunglasses, or a solar telescope for safe viewing.
For those without specialized equipment, experts claim the safest at-home viewing method involves a colander, projecting the eclipse image onto a surface.
Amazon Prime members can reportedly receive next-day delivery for ISO-compliant Soluna 10 Pack Solar Eclipse Glasses, recognized by the American Astronomical Society.
Millions are expected to watch the celestial display if weather conditions permit.
However, the Met Office indicated it is too early to pinpoint areas with the clearest skies for the eclipse.

It’s still five days away though, so there’s still some uncertainty.

Tom Morgan
Tom Morgan from the Met Office noted, "It’s still five days away though, so there’s still some uncertainty."
Morgan suggested a moderate to high possibility of clear skies for a significant portion of the UK, particularly in England and Wales, but cautioned about potential cloud in the west.
More changeable conditions, including showers and stronger winds, are likely in the north, while parts of the south are expected to experience warm and dry weather.