A near-total solar eclipse will be visible across the UK and Ireland on Wednesday 12 August 2026, with around 90-96% of the Sun covered by the Moon depending on where you watch from. That makes it the most coverage seen from the British Isles since the total eclipse of 1999.
For Gnosall residents, expect to see coverage in the region of 90-92%. Those further south-west such as Cornwall, Devon or west Wales will see slightly more. The further south-west you can get, the better the view.
When to watch
The eclipse unfolds in the early evening as the Sun is setting in the west. Timings are approximate for the Midlands, but broadly:
- First contact (Moon begins to cover the Sun): around 6.15pm
- Maximum coverage: around 7.12pm
- Eclipse ends: around 8.05pm
Because the Sun will be low on the western horizon throughout, find a spot with a clear, unobstructed view to the west - a hill or open field works well.
How to watch safely
Never look directly at the Sun during an eclipse, even when most of it is covered. It can cause serious, permanent eye damage. Here are safe ways to watch:
- Eclipse glasses - Specialist eclipse glasses block harmful rays and let you look directly at the eclipse. Regular sunglasses are not safe. Check that any pair you buy carries the safety certification ISO 12312-2.
- Solar telescope - Local astronomy societies often hold public viewing events with telescopes fitted with proper solar filters. It is worth checking whether Stafford Astronomical Society has anything planned as the date approaches.
- Pinhole projector - You can make a simple projector at home that casts an image of the Sun onto a surface, letting you watch the eclipse indirectly.
- Live stream - The Royal Observatory Greenwich will be broadcasting a free live stream of the event online.
What will it look like?
With 90% of the Sun covered, there will be a noticeable drop in light and temperature, although the sky will not go dark as it does during a total eclipse. Think of it as closer to a cloudy afternoon or twilight. It will still be a striking - and eery - sight.
The total eclipse on the same day falls over parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain, where cities including Reykjavik, Bilbao and Zaragoza will experience complete darkness for up to two minutes.
Source: rmg.co.uk
