When and where to see the solar eclipse in Scotland
Up to 95% of the Sun will slowly disappear behind the Moon in the most dramatic eclipse visible from the UK since August 1999.
A solar eclipse will be visible across Scotland on Wednesday, with up to 95% of the Sun disappearing behind the Moon. The event, which has not been seen in the UK since August 1999, will last about two hours. Astronomers recommend viewing the eclipse from an elevated location with an unobstructed view to the west, as the Sun sets later in Scotland, allowing it to be higher in the sky during the eclipse.
The Moon will start moving in front of the Sun between 18:01 and 18:10 BST, with the peak of the eclipse occurring about an hour later. The entire event will end just before 20:00 BST. Weather fronts may affect views in some areas, but those in the south and east of Scotland might have clearer skies due to cloud cover.
Several community events across Scotland are planned to mark the occasion, including talks, eclipse glasses distribution, and stargazing activities. It is crucial to never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection, such as certified eclipse glasses, which will be provided at many events. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient for safe viewing. The next total solar eclipse will be witnessed by parts of Spain and Portugal, but Scotland will be in close proximity to the path of the eclipse.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.