A solar eclipse covering between 90% and 96% of the sun will be visible across the UK and Ireland on the evening of August 12, 2026, the most extensive such event since 1999, astronomers say.
The Guardian reports this is the first solar eclipse visible across the UK this century. The moon will pass between the sun and Earth, blocking sunlight across the region. The next comparable eclipse visible from the UK will not come until 2081, The Guardian said.
Coverage extends to London, North West England, and Yorkshire, according to BBC News Science. Yorkshire's view is described as the best opportunity residents there have had since 1999.
The 1999 eclipse was the last time the UK and Ireland experienced 90% to 96% sun coverage of this kind, both outlets noted.