On Wednesday evening, millions of Europeans will experience a solar eclipse, with a rare total eclipse visible in a wide band of north and central Spain, parts of Portugal, and some areas of Greenland and Iceland. The event will also bring a partial eclipse to much of western Europe, including the UK, France, Belgium, Switzerland, and northern Italy, where the light of the setting sun will be virtually blocked out.
Timing and Visibility in the UK
In the UK, the Royal Observatory Greenwich calculates that the partial eclipse will begin for viewers in London at 18:17 BST, reach its maximum at 19:12 BST, and end at 20:06 BST. This provides a nearly two-hour window for observers in the capital to witness the celestial phenomenon.
For those planning to view the eclipse, experts have stressed the importance of eye safety. Looking at the sun with the naked eye, or relying on standard sunglasses, can cause permanent eye damage. Instead, they recommend using special eclipse glasses that meet international safety standards.
Share Your Experience
The Guardian is inviting readers to share their photos and experiences of the solar eclipse. Whether you are traveling to see the celestial rarity or making an event of it at home, your contributions are welcome. Responses can be submitted via an online form, and participants must be 18 or over. Contributions can be anonymous, and the form is encrypted, ensuring that only the Guardian has access to the data. Personal data will be deleted once it is no longer required for the feature.
For those having trouble using the form, alternative secure contact methods are available through the Guardian's tips guide. Terms of service and privacy policy details are also provided for transparency.
Impact and Next Steps
The eclipse is expected to draw significant public interest across Europe, with many planning viewing events or gatherings. As the event approaches, experts advise checking local weather forecasts and ensuring proper eye protection to safely enjoy the spectacle. The Guardian will feature selected reader contributions, offering a platform for shared experiences of this rare astronomical occurrence.
