As you may know, tomorrow there will be a partial solar eclipse visible in the UK—assuming the weather cooperates (we feel for you in Leeds). This is a rare event, as the next one won’t occur until 2026. It’s definitely worth taking a moment to witness this celestial phenomenon.

What Is a Partial Eclipse?

A partial eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, but not perfectly aligned. As a result, only part of the sun is covered by the moon. Even though it's called "partial," many people in the UK will experience a noticeable darkening of the sky during the maximum eclipse, when the moon appears to take a big bite out of the sun.

How Can I Watch It Safely?

Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, is extremely dangerous and can cause permanent eye damage. You should never stare at the sun with your bare eyes or through a camera lens.

Solar viewing glasses are the safest way to watch an eclipse, but they can be expensive and often sell out quickly. If you're unable to find them, there's a fun and affordable alternative: making your own pinhole projector.

With just a few household items, like a cardboard tube, foil, paper, and a pin, you can create a simple device that safely projects the image of the eclipse onto a surface. Here’s how:

1. Find a long cardboard tube, such as a postal tube (1250mm x 152mm works well).
2. Remove the plastic cap from one end and tape a piece of aluminum foil over the opening.
3. Use a pin to poke a small hole in the center of the foil.
4. Make a viewing hole on the side of the tube, near the other end.
5. Place a white sheet of paper inside the tube, close to the viewing hole, and replace the plastic cap.
6. Point the end with the pinhole toward the sun and look through the viewing hole. You'll see a clear projection of the eclipse on the paper.
7. Never look through the pinhole directly at the sun—only observe the image on the paper.

You can also use two pieces of paper: punch a small hole in one and hold it above your shoulder with your back to the sun. Hold the second piece of paper at a distance in front of the first, and the image of the eclipse will appear on the second sheet.

It's amazing how everyday materials can be used for something so special. Who knew a postal tube could become a tool for astronomy?

When Will the Eclipse Be Visible?

If you’ve made your own projector, you’ll want to know when to step outside. The timing varies depending on your location in the UK.

The eclipse will begin around 8:20 AM in some areas and as late as 8:40 AM in others. The peak, or maximum eclipse, will occur between 9:22 AM and 9:41 AM, depending on where you live. People in the Scottish Highlands and northern England will see the most dramatic effect, with up to 98% of the sun covered, while those in southern cities like Bournemouth or Portsmouth will see about 86–89% coverage.

The eclipse will be over by 10:45 AM, which gives you just enough time for a cup of tea after the show!

Whether you're using homemade equipment or special glasses, remember to stay safe and enjoy the beauty of the natural world. It's a once-in-a-lifetime event—and we're all lucky to have a chance to witness it.

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