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UK’s deepest partial solar eclipse since 1999 dazzles at 90%

8/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The United Kingdom observed its deepest partial solar eclipse since 1999 on 12 August 2026, at roughly 90% coverage.
The eclipse peaked just after 19:00 BST, reaching up to 95% coverage in Cornwall.
Shortages of certified eclipse glasses forced viewers to improvise with colanders, cereal boxes and paper.
Royal Museums Greenwich said the UK will not see another deep partial eclipse until 2050 or a total eclipse until 2090.

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Story summary

The United Kingdom observed its deepest partial solar eclipse since 1999 on 12 August 2026, at roughly 90% coverage.
The eclipse peaked just after 19:00 BST, reaching up to 95% coverage in Cornwall.
Shortages of certified eclipse glasses forced viewers to improvise with colanders, cereal boxes and paper.
Royal Museums Greenwich said the UK will not see another deep partial eclipse until 2050 or a total eclipse until 2090.