How to watch next month's solar eclipse and meteor shower
WARNING: NEVER LOOK AT THE SUN
Last updated 18 hours ago
Next month will be a stellar month for amateur astronomers and members of the public, as we have a partial solar eclipse and one of the year's best meteor showers to look forward to, on the same day!
This year, here in the UK we'll be treated to a partial solar eclipse, just hours before the sky will be lit up with hundreds of meteors (weather permitting).
When will the solar eclipse happen?
This year, there will be a partial solar eclipse, visible from the UK. Viewers in parts of Spain will be able to see the total solar eclipse.
The eclipse will be visible from the UK on 12th August 2026 between approximately 6pm and 8pm, with the greatest eclipse around 7pm - 7.10pm depending on where you are in the country. This means that the Sun will be low in the sky, as it will be about to set, so to view it (with precautions) you will need to have a good view of the horizon.
How much of the Sun will be covered by the Moon?
In the UK, up to 93.2% (in Cardiff) will be covered by the Moon. Leeds will have the least amount of the Sun covered, around 90.8%.
How to view a solar eclipse
WARNING: NEVER LOOK AT THE SUN
Here in the UK we won't get to see a total solar eclipse. It's very important you take care when viewing the eclipse, and don't look directly at the Sun, as it could permanently damage your eyes, or blind you.
There are several different methods you can use to view it safely including solar certified eclipse glasses, or a pinhole projector.
This video is from 2017, and the dates mentioned do not relate to the 2026 eclipse.
READ MORE: How to view a meteor shower
When is the Perseids meteor shower?
Just hours after the Sun has set, on the same day as the solar eclipse (12th August), we'll be treated to the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, which takes place between 17th July and 24th August 2026.
How to view the Perseids
You will be able to see the Perseid meteor shower in the area of the sky where Perseus is. Below is a video showing you where to look in the sky. If you're already familiar with some constellations, try finding Cassiopeia, recognised by its familiar W shape, and then looking towards the bright star Capella, Perseus will be in between.
How many meteors are expected?
The Perseid meteor shower typically has the most shooting stars per hour, out of any meteor showers that take place over the year. This year, Royal Museums Greenwich predict there will be around 150 meteors per hour. With no Moon to obscure the sky, if we have good weather, we could be in for a treat. 💫
Now take a look through our tips on how to view shooting stars:
1. Dark sky
You might not realise how much light pollution there is in your neighbourhood, find out more about light pollution and where you can find a really dark sky here.
Allow your eyes 15 minutes to adjust to the darkness. Don't forget that the moon can also interfere so try to avoid times when it is visible.
2. Date and time
To increase your chances of seeing some meteors make sure you find out the best time to look for them. Often it is when the sky is at its darkest (in the middle of the night), or if there is a meteor shower, when the radiant (where the meteors come from - the constellation Perseus) is high in the sky.
3. Look in the right area
It sounds obvious, but the sky is a very large area and meteors are very fast! Make sure you know which area of the sky you should be looking in. The Perseids come from Perseus, the easiest way to find it would be to use a free sky map app on your phone.
4. Good weather
Again, it seems obvious, but there's no point in standing in the cold when it's cloudy. Check the weather forecast before going outside, and if it's going to be clear later on then wait until then if you can.
5. Don't use a telescope or binoculars
Using a telescope or binoculars will DECREASE your chances of seeing a meteor. Meteors are so quick that you are likely to miss them if you don't use the naked eye. Save your telescope or binoculars for the moon or planets.