Once-in-a-generation solar eclipse wows millions in UK and Europe – Gallery
Millions of people looked skyward on Wednesday as a total solar eclipse swept across parts of Europe and the Northern Hemisphere, briefly turning daylight into darkness.
Gallery Below
A spectacular total solar eclipse swept across parts of the Northern Hemisphere on Wednesday, 12 August, drawing huge crowds to watch one of the year’s biggest astronomical events.
The eclipse was total across a narrow path that included Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, Spain and a small section of Portugal. Meanwhile, a partial eclipse was visible across much of Europe, Canada and parts of northwestern Africa.
Moon Blocks Out The Sun
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between Earth and the Sun. For those positioned within the path of totality, the Moon completely covers the Sun for a short period.
On Wednesday, that period lasted less than two minutes across most locations. However, the dramatic effect was enough to turn daylight into darkness and reveal the Sun’s corona around the Moon.
Spain provided some of the most spectacular viewing conditions. The eclipse arrived late in the day, with totality occurring shortly before sunset. In León, for example, totality began at 20:28 local time. Valencia experienced totality a few minutes later.
Crowds gathered across Spain to watch the event, while thousands of eclipse tourists also travelled to Iceland. Cloud cover affected viewing in parts of Iceland, although the sudden darkness still provided a memorable spectacle.
Another Eclipse Is Coming
Africa will get a much better opportunity next year.
Another total solar eclipse will take place on 2 August 2027. Its path will cross North Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, Libya and Egypt, before continuing across the Middle East.
South Africans have an even bigger date to look forward to. A total solar eclipse on 25 November 2030 will cross parts of Namibia, Botswana and South Africa.
images BBC
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