Tuesday, 11 August 2026
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WorldPublished: 11 August 2026 at 14:18

Total solar eclipse to sweep across parts of Europe and beyond on August 12

On August 12, the moon will fully block the sun over parts of Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and Portugal, while the UK will see a partial eclipse — its deepest since 1999. Experts stress the importance of proper eye protection.

Foto: The Guardian Science

A significant astronomical event will take place on August 12, as the moon moves directly in front of the sun, producing a solar eclipse visible across several regions of the world.

Where totality will be visible

According to Nasa, a total solar eclipse — during which the sun is completely obscured — will be observable from parts of Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and Portugal.

A partial eclipse for the UK

Residents of the UK will not experience totality this time, but will instead witness a partial eclipse, with as much as 96% of the sun's surface covered by the moon. This is expected to be the deepest eclipse seen in the UK since 1999.

Eye safety is essential

Regardless of where viewers are watching from, experts emphasise the importance of protecting the eyes properly during the event. The Guardian's Sarah Ann Harris has explained the safest ways to observe the eclipse and the risks of looking directly at the sun without adequate protection.

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