City reporter
London
A rare astronomical spectacle of a total solar eclipse was seen in various parts of the UK and Europe after 26 years, which attracted millions of people.
The solar eclipse that took place on August 12, 2026, began in northern Russia and the northern regions of the Arctic, which was viewed by millions of people.
The total phase of the eclipse was visible in some limited areas of Greenland, Iceland, Spain and Portugal, while the sun was partially hidden behind the moon in most parts of Europe, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Sweden.
A large number of citizens and tourists gathered in various cities and tourist destinations in the UK and European countries to watch the rare spectacle. In some areas, including Madrid and Barcelona, about 99% of the sun was hidden behind the moon, which created an unusual scene in the sky, however, an almost total partial solar eclipse was seen in these cities instead of a total one.
In addition to Europe, this scene was also partially visible in Canada, the northern regions of the United States and some parts of North Africa.
Astronomers warned citizens not to try to view the eclipse directly with their eyes. According to experts, it is necessary to use certified solar eclipse glasses or appropriate solar filters for observation, as ordinary sunglasses do not protect the eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. This astronomical event on August 12 is of particular importance for Europe, because it is the first time since 1999 that such a prominent view of a total solar eclipse was seen in many parts of the continent, and this is also the second solar eclipse this year.
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