UK Solar Eclipse Wednesday: Moon to Cover 96% of Sun in Best View Since 1999

The United Kingdom will experience its most impressive solar eclipse since 1999 on Wednesday evening — and the best it will see for the next 50 years, according to astronomers. Across the country up to 96% of the Sun's disc will be covered by the Moon, depending on location. The spectacle will also include a total solar eclipse visible from parts of Europe, Greenland, Iceland and Russia.

Where and when to watch

In the UK, the peak eclipse will fall between 18:58 and 19:15 BST, depending on where you are. Devon, Cornwall and western Pembrokeshire in Wales are set to see the fullest coverage, with 94% to 96% of the Sun obscured. Most of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can expect between 90% and 94% coverage.

Hundreds of thousands of people have travelled to northern Spain — the path of totality in Europe — for the astronomical spectacle. The total eclipse will also be visible in Portugal, Greenland, Iceland, and parts of Russia.

How to watch safely

Looking directly at the Sun during a partial eclipse without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage. Specialist eclipse glasses sold out in most UK shops ahead of Wednesday's event. Astronomers recommend using a pinhole projector, a colander, or watching via a live stream as safe alternatives. Only during the brief moments of totality — in places where the eclipse is total — is it safe to observe with the naked eye.