Skywatchers across Enniskillen and County Fermanagh could be in for a spectacular sight on Wednesday 12 August, as a rare partial solar eclipse becomes visible across Northern Ireland.
While we won’t experience a total eclipse, the Moon is expected to cover more than 90% of the Sun at the eclipse’s peak, making it one of the most impressive solar eclipses visible from Northern Ireland in many years.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking some of the Sun’s light.
For a short time, daylight will appear noticeably dimmer as the Moon covers most of the Sun.
When will the eclipse happen?
Across Northern Ireland, the eclipse is expected to begin at around 6:10pm, reach its maximum at approximately 7:08pm, before ending just after 8:00pm.
As always, exact timings may vary slightly depending on your location.
Will we be able to see it in Fermanagh?
Hopefully!
The biggest deciding factor will be the weather. If cloud cover stays away, people across Enniskillen and Fermanagh should enjoy an excellent view of the eclipse.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on the forecast over the coming days and will provide updates on viewing conditions as we get closer to Wednesday.
Don’t forget to protect your eyes
Never look directly at the Sun during a partial solar eclipse without proper eclipse glasses or certified solar viewing equipment.
Ordinary sunglasses are not safe for viewing a solar eclipse and can still result in serious eye damage.
Fingers crossed for clear skies!
Events like this don’t come around very often, so we’re hoping the weather plays its part.
We’ll be sharing local weather updates ahead of Wednesday’s eclipse, including the latest cloud cover forecast for Enniskillen and County Fermanagh, to help you decide whether viewing conditions are likely to be favourable.
If the skies stay clear, it should be an evening well worth looking up for.
