Biggest solar eclipse in 16 years set to plunge Britain into darkness

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The biggest solar eclipse for 16 years will block out as much as 90% of the sunlight across parts of the UK on Friday.

The moon will pass in front of the sun, casting a huge shadow over the Earth.

The partial eclipse will last for around two hours and be visible across Europe.

Credit: PA

  • In London, the solar eclipse will start at about 8.40am

  • The maximum eclipse is expected at around 9.30am

  • The eclipse will end around 10:40am

Credit: PA

According to NASA, these are the safest ways to look at the eclipse:

Projection: Place a pinhole or small opening in a card, and hold it between the sun and a screen - giant sheet of white paper works - a few feet away. An image of the sun will be seen on the screen.

Filters: The sun can be viewed directly only when using filters specifically designed for eclipses. These filters usually have a thin layer of aluminum, chromium or silver deposited on their surfaces.

Credit: PA

The eclipse is also expected to put a strain on energy supplies because of the increasing reliance on solar power. Speaking to the Telegraph, the European Network Transmission System Operators for Electricity said:

If you miss it on Friday, the next total solar is due on 12 August 2026.