The solar eclipse on the 12th August 2026 is set to be the biggest solar eclipse since 1999. We will not see a solar eclipse with the same percentage of totality until 2081, so it is definitely worth viewing it tonight.
Around 92% of the Sun should be covered from the Wolverhampton area – leaving a thin crescent of sunlight in the sky. The eclipse is set to start at around 18:15, with peak totality occurring around 19:10, with the eclipse coming to an end at 20:00.
Ordinary sunglasses are not safe. You need proper solar/eclipse glasses that are designed for direct solar viewing. Even when 90%+ of the Sun is covered, the remaining sunlight is still intense enough to damage your eyes.
For safely viewing tonight’s solar eclipse, it is essential to use ISO 12312-2 compliant eclipse glasses specifically designed for direct solar observation. Ordinary sunglasses, camera filters or homemade alternatives are not safe, even when most of the Sun is covered, as the remaining sunlight can still cause serious and permanent eye damage. Make sure your glasses are undamaged and fit securely, and put them on before looking towards the Sun. Never look directly at the Sun through binoculars, a telescope or a camera unless the equipment has a proper solar filter designed for that purpose.
