What is a Solar Eclipse?

A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes in front of the Sun, blocking its light. This event occurs when the Earth, Sun, and Moon are in the same line.

The 2026 Solar Eclipse

The 2026 solar eclipse was the first to be seen in Europe in over 30 years. Millions of people watched as the Moon passed in front of the Sun, blocking its light. The UK saw a partial eclipse, with the best views in southwest England and Wales.

Images

Let's take a look at some images from the eclipse. In Reykjavik, Iceland, crowds watched as the Moon passed in front of the Sun, darkening the sky. In the UK, over 90% of the Sun was covered by the Moon. In Cornwall, the Moon covered 95% of the Sun. Beaches were filled with people hoping to witness the historic event.

Fun Facts

Did you know? The Sun is 400 times bigger than the Moon, but it's also 400 times farther away. That's why the Moon can pass in front of the Sun and block its light. During an eclipse, a ring of light appears around the Sun. This is a phenomenon caused by the Sun's light passing through the Moon's edges.

Sports Events

During the eclipse, some sports events and competitions continued. At the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, spectators watched the eclipse using protective glasses.

Conclusion

The 2026 solar eclipse was watched by millions of people around the world. The UK saw a partial eclipse, with the best views in southwest England and Wales. The next total solar eclipse will be visible from Europe in 2027. However, the next big partial solar eclipse in the UK won't happen until 2081, and the next total eclipse won't be visible until 2090.