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Total solar eclipse, 12 August 2026
From London this was a partial eclipse. At its greatest, at 19:13 BST, about 91% of the Sun's disc was covered, with the Sun about 10° above the horizon. It began at 18:17 BST and ended at 20:06 BST, though the Sun may set first.
Key facts
| Type | Total solar eclipse |
|---|---|
| Greatest eclipse | 12 August 2026, 18:45 BST |
| Path of the main eclipse | Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain |
| From London | Partial, about 91% of the Sun covered at 19:13 BST |
What you will see
Never look at the Sun directly, even when most of it is covered. Use certified eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2) or project the Sun's image through a pinhole onto card. Sunglasses, smoked glass and camera screens are not safe.
Where it is best seen
The total phase was seen from Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. Everywhere else nearby sees a partial eclipse.
Eclipses in tradition
Solar eclipses were long read as omens of change for rulers and kingdoms. In modern astrology they are treated as powerful new moons for fresh starts. We share this as tradition, not prediction.
How we worked it out
Times and visibility come from astronomy-engine, an open-source astronomy library, calculated for London. Elsewhere in the UK, times differ by a few minutes and solar eclipse coverage changes a little: more in the north-west for the August 2026 eclipse.
Questions answered
Can I see the 12 August 2026 eclipse from the UK?
Yes, as a partial eclipse, about 91% covered from London.
What time is the eclipse on 12 August 2026?
Greatest eclipse is at 18:45 BST UK time.
Is it safe to look at the total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026?
Only with proper eclipse glasses or by projection. Never look straight at the Sun.
Key facts (summary)
- From London this was a partial eclipse.
- Type: Total solar eclipse
- Greatest eclipse: 12 August 2026, 18:45 BST
- Path of the main eclipse: Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain
- From London: Partial, about 91% of the Sun covered at 19:13 BST
- Yes, as a partial eclipse, about 91% covered from London.
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