Skygazers across the UK were treated to a stunning spectacle as they gathered to witness a partial solar eclipse. The event occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, obscuring only part of the Sun from view. The eclipse reached its peak in London around 11 am on Saturday, with visibility varying across the country from approximately 10 am to noon. Excitement was palpable among onlookers in Lewes, Sussex, as Robert Massey, deputy executive director of the Royal Astronomical Society, described the scene as “really nice” with people wearing eclipse glasses and peering through telescopes.
Astronomer Imo Bell from the Royal Observatory Greenwich highlighted the predictability of the eclipse, noting that advancements in technology allow for precise forecasts of such celestial events. Despite varying levels of cloud coverage affecting visibility in some areas, those in southern and eastern regions enjoyed the best viewing conditions. Everyday household items became makeshift tools for many viewers, with cautionary advice against directly looking at the Sun to prevent eye damage. Observers like Elliott Richmond and Mike Merrifield creatively used items like tripods, cardboard, white sheets of paper, and colanders to safely view the eclipse.
For Richmond and Merrifield, the eclipse provided an opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to engage with the wonders of the universe using simple, budget-friendly methods. Richmond’s resourceful approach was labelled as “Blue Peter” style, while Merrifield utilised a colander and a specialized telescope named Dwarf II to capture unique views of the event. Merrifield expressed his surprise at witnessing the eclipse during daylight hours, highlighting the convenience of observing astronomical phenomena at a more civilised time of day compared to typical late-night stargazing sessions.
The Met Office had earlier forecasted that the southern and eastern parts of the UK would have optimal viewing conditions for the eclipse, with less favourable weather in northern and western regions. Looking ahead, the next partial solar eclipse visible in the UK is slated for August 2026, expected to offer up to 90% obscurity. The enthusiasm and creativity demonstrated by skygazers during this event underscore the enduring fascination with celestial occurrences and the ingenuity of amateur astronomers in making the most of such rare opportunities.
Overall, the partial solar eclipse brought people together across the UK, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity about the cosmos. As viewers marvelled at the intricate dance of celestial bodies, it served as a reminder of the beauty and grandeur of the universe that surrounds us. Whether using high-tech equipment or improvising with household items, the eclipse provided a unifying experience that transcended geographical boundaries and united individuals in awe of the natural world.