Peterborough solar eclipse explainer: Exact time residents should look to the skies to see best solar eclipse since 1999
You’ll have to wait until 2090 if you miss it!
Residents in Peterborough will have a chance to witness a rare solar eclipse later this week as the Moon moves between the Sun and the Earth.
A solar eclipse happens when the moon moves between the sun and the Earth, blocking the sun’s light either partly or fully.
During this eclipse, between 90-96% of the sun will be covered by the moon for the first time in the UK since 1999.
The amount of coverage you'll see depends on your location within the UK, but all parts of the country should be able to see the spectacle.
After this week's event, the UK will not see another deep partial solar eclipse until 2050, while the next total solar eclipse visible from the UK is not due until 2090.
When can I see the eclipse in Peterborough?
Here in the UK, the eclipse will take place on Wednesday evening (August 12) between 6.17pm and 8.06pm.
In Peterborough, residents will notice the ‘first contact’ just after 6.15pm.
The eclipse will reach its maximum at 7.11pm, when roughly 90% of the sun is covered.
At the maximum, enough of the Sun will be covered to make a noticeable difference in the temperature and light levels.
However, unlike with a total eclipse, the sky will not become dark. It will feel more like a cloudy day or close to dusk or dawn, according to Royal Museums Greenwich.
How to see the eclipse safely
Anyone hoping to watch the eclipse should take care when looking towards the sun.
Ordinary sunglasses are not safe for viewing a solar eclipse.
Looking directly at the sun can cause serious and permanent damage to your eyes, even when the sun is partially covered.
People should use properly certified solar viewing glasses or approved solar filters designed specifically for observing the sun.
Cameras, binoculars and telescopes should also never be pointed at the sun without the appropriate specialist solar filter.