{
  "id": 646014,
  "title": "Solar eclipse: What to look forward to",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/12/solar-eclipse-what-to-look-forward-to-646014",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-08-12T07:50:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "DW News",
    "slug": "dw-news",
    "url": "https://www.dw.com/en/solar-eclipse-what-to-look-forward-to/a-78330594?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On Wednesday, a solar eclipse will be visible to around 980 million people in the Northern Hemisphere. Researchers will utilize this opportunity to test specialized instruments and capture rare images of the sun's corona, which is only visible during the brief period when the moon's shadow darkens the sky. During the eclipse, the moon passes between Earth and the sun, casting a shadow that temporarily darkens the atmosphere. As the moon moves closer, the temperature may drop, shadows may appear crescent-shaped, the wind may shift, and animals may behave unusually.\n\nTo safely view the eclipse, solar panels will generate less energy, potentially causing a temporary rise in electricity prices. In Germany, this is anticipated to occur. Before the eclipse reaches its peak, known as totality, viewers may witness Baily's beads – final rays of sunlight reaching Earth through valleys on the moon's surface, appearing as white specks encircling the moon. As totality begins, stars may become visible, with some possible sightings of auroras or passing meteors. Residents of Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, northern Spain, and northeastern Portugal will have the opportunity to observe a total solar eclipse. In contrast, most of Western Europe, northern Africa, and northern America will witness a partial solar eclipse.\n\nThis eclipse marks the first of two events in August; the second will occur on August 27-28, when Earth moves between the sun and the moon, creating a lunar eclipse. The next solar eclipse will take place on February 2, 2027, over Africa, South America, and parts of Antarctica. While eclipses are common, total solar eclipses that are visible from inhabited parts of the globe are relatively rare. The last total solar eclipse visible for most of mainland Europe occurred in 1999. The eclipse will commence at 15:34 GMT, with the moon gradually dimming the sun's light as it approaches. Totality will last for approximately two minutes at 17:46 GMT. However, the exact timing will vary depending on the viewer's location. To ensure proper viewing, it is recommended to watch from elevated positions, such as west-facing hills, towers, or safe rooftops with an unobstructed view. NASA will also provide a livestream for those interested in a clearer image. Remember, it is crucial not to look directly at the sun, as it can cause permanent damage to the retina. Specialized eclipse glasses, certified ISO 12312-2 standards, and homemade pinhole camera projects are safe alternatives for viewing the phenomenon.",
  "summary": "The last solar eclipse visible from the European mainland was in 1999. Here's what to expect, and how to prepare for this rare occasion.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 3,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Deutsche Welle Science",
        "title": "Solar eclipse: What to look forward to",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/12/solar-eclipse-what-to-look-forward-to",
        "published": "2026-08-12T07:50:00.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Tempo.co English",
        "title": "Solar Eclipse: What to Look Forward To",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/12/solar-eclipse-what-to-look-forward-to-656144",
        "published": "2026-08-12T10:27:39.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}