Armagh Observatory to host special event for solar eclipse
The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is hosting a family-friendly event for a 94% partial solar eclipse on August 12. Experts are advising the public to use proper eye protection to avoid permanent damage while viewing the rare celestial event.
Why it matters
This event marks the deepest partial solar eclipse in Ireland since 1999, providing a significant educational and public engagement opportunity for astronomy.
On Wednesday, 12 August, the moon will cover approximately 94% of the sun, causing a partial solar eclipse.
It will be the deepest eclipse seen from the UK and Ireland since the total eclipse of August 1999, and the last time that such an eclipse will be seen here until 2090.
A total solar eclipse will cover a narrow path of our planet, likely crossing Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain, and a small portion of Portugal.
Although Ireland won't see a total eclipse, the 94% partial eclipse has been eagerly awaited by professionals in the field for decades.
Speaking on the hotly anticipated event, Director of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Professor Michael Burton said: "The last time skies over Ireland darkened to this extent was in 1999. On that occasion people travelled from all over to stand under the path of totality in Cornwall.
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