People across Sussex and Hampshire will be looking skyward this evening as Britain experiences its most dramatic solar eclipse since 1999.
The partial eclipse will begin at approximately 6.18pm BST in Portsmouth, Chichester, Brighton and Eastbourne, when the Moon will appear to take a small “bite” from the Sun.
The Moon will then gradually move across the solar disc, with maximum coverage occurring at around 7.14pm. More than 90 per cent of the Sun will be obscured, leaving only a narrow, brilliant crescent visible.
The eclipse will end at approximately 8.07pm, giving people a viewing window of around one hour and 49 minutes. Timings may vary by a few seconds depending on the observer’s precise location. (Brighton timings, Portsmouth timings)
Although the eclipse will produce a noticeable reduction in daylight, the South will not be plunged into complete darkness. Observers may notice the light becoming unusually subdued, temperatures falling slightly and shadows appearing sharper.
Crescent-shaped patches of sunlight may also appear beneath trees as gaps between the leaves act like natural pinhole projectors.
The Sun will be low in the western sky, so people will need to find a location with a clear view towards the western horizon, away from buildings and tall trees. The event remains weather-dependent.
Experts have warned people never to look directly at the Sun without suitable protection, as doing so can cause permanent eye damage.
Only certified eclipse glasses meeting the ISO 12312-2 safety standard should be used. Ordinary sunglasses are not safe, regardless of how dark they appear. Binoculars, cameras and telescopes must have professionally fitted solar filters.
A pinhole projector can also be used to view the eclipse indirectly. The Royal Observatory Greenwich will provide an online broadcast from 6.10pm.
Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today! Read with ease, no annoying pop-up ads.
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.
Saywell International Track Day at Goodwood raises £15,000 for Beds4Kids campaign
Mystery ‘flying saucer’ passed within 300 feet of Gatwick passenger jet
Chichester restaurant celebrates success at English Curry Awards
Red wildfire warning issued across Arun amid exceptionally dry conditions
Temporary housing increases in Brighton and Hove
Police appeal after cyclist seriously injured in Cosham collision
Pilot taken to hospital after light-aircraft crash near Billingshurst
Police appeal after man injured in reported Worthing stabbing
Portsmouth Water rules out hosepipe ban
Councillors have approved plans for a new sports centre at Plumpton Racecourse.
On Air