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Out of this world: When and how to see the solar eclipse in August 2026

The sun being covered by the moon. There are clouds beside it that are glowing red because of the light.Getty Images

A partial eclipse seen in New Zealand in 2025

On Wednesday 12 August 2026, people in the UK and Ireland will experience a partial solar eclipse.

On this occasion that means around 90% or more of the sun will be covered by the moon.

While this happens every few years, this time will be special. August's eclipse will be the closest the UK has been to total coverage of the sun for 27 years.

Sounds out of this world!

But don't let safety be overshadowed, remember that it's really important to view an eclipse safely!

Read on to find out more about the partial eclipse and how to watch it safely.

Progression of the partial solar eclipse - the image shows 6 pictures of the sun being covered more and more by the moon.Getty Images

Progression of a partial solar eclipse

What is an eclipse?

A solar eclipse is when the Moon passes in front of the Sun and blocks its light.

It's a special cosmic event where the Sun, Moon and Earth all have to line up to for it to happen.

Depending on how they line up, there are different types of eclipse that are visible from the Earth:

  • A partial eclipse, which will happen on 12 August, is when the Moon only covers part of the Sun.

  • A total eclipse is when the Sun is completely blocked by the Moon, causing the sky to go dark.

  • An annular eclipse, is where the Moon is in front of the Sun, but is too far away from the Earth to completely block it.

Tips on how to safely watch the eclipse

A group of children watching an eclipse wearing special protective glasses.Getty Images

It's VERY important to make sure you view eclipses safely

We totally get that you might want to watch the eclipse.

And you can do that in lots of different ways.

But it is REALLY IMPORTANT to remember that it's not safe to look directly at the eclipse, as the Sun could damage your eyes.

Sunglasses do not offer good enough protection either!

So if you want to view the eclipse, ask your parents or an adult you trust about special protective eclipse glasses or maybe watching a live-stream of the event.

Another option to look at the partial solar eclipse is through something called a pinhole camera.

Take a look at the video below for tips on how to make one at home!

Eclipse: Make a pinhole camera

A pinhole camera projects the light from the Sun onto a piece of card inside a cereal box, where you'll be able to see the outline of the Sun as the moon crosses it.

And if you do make one, make sure to stand with your back to the Sun, allowing the light to project through the pinhole for you to view safely inside the box.

So whichever way you watch the eclipse, make sure you do so safely!

Will you be watching the eclipse? Let us know in the comments below!