On Wednesday 12 August 2026, we may have the prospect to witness one in all nature’s most spectacular celestial occasions, a partial photo voltaic eclipse. From Armagh, the Moon will cowl roughly 94% of the Solar at most eclipse, making it probably the most anticipated eclipses seen from Eire in a long time.
A photo voltaic eclipse happens when the Moon passes immediately between the Earth and the Solar. Though the Moon is 400 occasions smaller than the Solar, it is usually round 400 occasions nearer to Earth, permitting it to look nearly precisely the identical measurement in our sky. This exceptional cosmic coincidence implies that, every so often, the Moon can quickly partially or fully block the Solar from view, casting its shadow on our planet.
A view of the Aug. 21, 2017, whole photo voltaic eclipse from Madras, Oregon. NASA/Gopalswamy
The eclipse on 12 August 2026 will likely be a complete photo voltaic eclipse for a slender path stretching throughout Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. That is referred to as the trail of totality. Right here in Armagh we’ll expertise a partial eclipse. The eclipse will start at roughly 6:10pm, attain most protection at round 7:08pm, and finish shortly after 8:00pm. At its peak, solely a skinny crescent of the Solar will stay seen. The occasion will happen through the night because the Solar progressively strikes down in direction of the western horizon, which is able to create a gorgeous sight because the eclipsed Solar sits low within the sky.
For many individuals on the Island, the final memorable photo voltaic eclipse was the partial eclipse of March 2025, when round 40% of the Solar was lined. Whereas spectacular, the 2026 eclipse will likely be on a totally completely different scale. In truth, will probably be the deepest photo voltaic eclipse seen from right here for the reason that well-known whole eclipse of August 1999, which introduced hundreds of holiday makers to Cornwall and elements of southern England.
Photographs of the Solar in three completely different phases of an eclipse. Credit score: NASA
Photo voltaic eclipses have fascinated humanity for hundreds of years. Historic cultures usually seen them as omens or supernatural occasions, whereas fashionable scientists use eclipses to check the Solar’s ambiance and the exact motions of celestial our bodies. Even at this time, eclipses remind us that we stay in a dynamic Photo voltaic System, the place the Earth, Moon and Solar are continually transferring in an intricate celestial dance.
To have fun this uncommon occasion, Armagh Planetarium will likely be open from 10am till 8pm, providing a full day of family-friendly actions, hands-on science demonstrations, space-themed enjoyable, dome exhibits and particular eclipse occasions. Guests will be capable of be taught concerning the science of eclipses, uncover how astronomers safely observe the Solar, and revel in a programme of actions appropriate for all ages.
As eclipse time approaches, our crew will present secure photo voltaic viewing alternatives. You will need to keep in mind that the Solar ought to by no means be seen immediately with out authorised photo voltaic filters, even throughout a partial eclipse. Planetarium employees will likely be available to assist guests observe the occasion safely and reply questions concerning the eclipse and the broader universe.
Be secure when viewing the Solar through the Partial Photo voltaic Eclipse. Credit score: NASA
When you’ve got not visited earlier than it’s also possible to discover the attractive grounds of Armagh Observatory, go to the dual cathedrals that dominate the skyline, or chill out and have a stroll and a espresso within the close by Mall space earlier than becoming a member of us for the eclipse itself.
After all, the one factor we can’t management is the climate. However whether or not the skies are crystal clear or partly cloudy, the eclipse presents an exquisite alternative to come back to Armagh Observatory and Planetarium and have fun our place within the cosmos.
Be part of us on 12 August 2026 for an unforgettable day because the Moon takes a chunk out of the Solar above Armagh.
Please Observe: Wanting immediately at a photo voltaic eclipse may cause everlasting eye injury. You will need to put on licensed eclipse glasses or use oblique viewing strategies to securely watch the occasion.
