Residents of the West Midlands will have a unique opportunity to observe a partial solar eclipse this week evening, believed to be the most dramatic in almost three decades in the UK. Astronomers predict that between 90% and 96% of the sun will gradually disappear behind the moon, promising an impressive celestial spectacle for the population. The phenomenon represents the highest level of solar coverage seen in the country since August 11, 1999 and will be the most extensive in the next 54 years.
Eye safety is crucial during the astronomical event
Viewing the sun directly, even when it appears darkened during an eclipse, can cause serious and permanent damage to your vision. Experts warn that the retina does not have pain receptors, which means people will not feel the damage as it occurs. Mohamed Elalfy, ophthalmologist and president of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, said symptoms may appear hours later and include blurred vision, blind or dark spots, distorted vision and increased sensitivity to light.
It is essential to never use ordinary sunglasses to observe the eclipse, as they do not block harmful solar rays that can reach the retina. The safe way to enjoy the event is by using certified solar eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector. These are the only ways recommended by experts to ensure eye protection.
Learn more: August will have a partial lunar eclipse visible in Belo Horizonte with almost 96% of the moon covered
Hours and estimated sun coverage in cities in the region
The astronomical event will last approximately one hour and fifty minutes. It is expected to start at around 6:20pm BST and finish at around 8:10pm BST, although exact times may vary slightly depending on where the observation is made in England.
- For the city of Birmingham, for example, the start, peak and end forecast is as follows:
- Start of eclipse: 6:15 pm
- Maximum coverage: 7:11 pm
- End of the eclipse: 8:04 pm
- Estimated coverage: between 91% and 92% of the sun
Recommended places to observe the phenomenon in the West Midlands
Several institutions and astronomy groups in the West Midlands region are organizing public events for safe eclipse viewing, offering infrastructure and guidance. These places are ideal for those looking for a guided and protected experience.
On the same topic: Memorial Day will have celebrations and parades in Lancaster County; tributes to fallen soldiers
- Among the events organized, the following stand out:
- Keele University, Staffordshire: The university invites the public to a free event on campus, with solar telescopes, eclipse glasses to borrow, refreshments and activities for children. There will also be guests from the Newchapel Observatory.
- Jodrell Bank, Cheshire: This renowned observatory will extend its opening hours until 8pm, offering guided solar observation sessions and an immersive film in the “Space Dome”, with tickets included in admission.
- Broadgate, Coventry center: The Coventry and Warwickshire Astronomical Society will host a public viewing of the partial eclipse. The event will feature special equipment and glasses, depending on weather conditions, near the Statue of Lady Godiva.
- Wolfords Village Hall, Warwickshire: The Chipping Norton Amateur Astronomy Group hosts a special evening for locals, starting at 6pm.
- Aston Hall, Birmingham: The venue is selling £5 tickets so people can see the celestial alignment through solar telescopes and hear explanations from its resident astronomer.
- Rodington Village Hall, Shropshire: The Shropshire Astronomical Society invites everyone to a fun event, featuring a picnic, live telescope views and astronomy talks, plus safe eclipse viewing for all the family. It is free for children under five.
- Shropshire Petal Fields: The site will have a special evening opening for the eclipse, scheduled to begin at 6:14 pm in the area. Organizers inform that visitors must bring their own solar observation glasses.
In addition to organized events, those with the correct eye protection can look for places with a clear western horizon. Hills and rural areas, without buildings that could obstruct the view, are good options. Some parks are also recommended, such as Sutton Park, Lickey Hills Country Park on the Birmingham/Worcestershire border, and Barr Beacon in Walsall, which offer wide, unobstructed views.
Remembering past events and the magnitude of this eclipse
The partial eclipse that will be visible in the UK this week is the most significant in terms of solar coverage since August 11, 1999, when the British population also had the chance to witness a similar phenomenon. Although it is not a total eclipse like those that will be seen in Greenland, Iceland and parts of northern Spain, its magnitude is remarkable.
Full coverage: Latest News (EN)
Astronomers have already calculated that an event of this magnitude should only be surpassed again in the next 54 years, which highlights the importance of taking advantage of the occasion. Millions of people in the United Kingdom and northern Europe also observed a solar eclipse on March 20, 2015, but this one promises an even more intense experience for the region.