Expert tips and best viewing events for the solar eclipse in East Sussex
This year, people across Sussex will see 90-96% of the sun covered by the moon for the first time since 1999 – and last chance until 2081.
On Wednesday (August 12th) a partial solar eclipse will be taking over the skies at 18:17pm.
Skies will be illuminated across the county in a cosmic event where the sun, the moon and the earth will be in a perfect alignment.
On lookers will have the opportunity to see two different shadows, but are warned to wear specialist eyewear.
Advice
The UK Home Office highlights that ordinary sunglasses are not suitable for the event- no matter how dark.
They said: “Sunglasses….do not provide adequate protection for viewing a solar eclipse.
"They reduce glare, making it feel more comfortable to look at the Sun for longer, while still allowing harmful solar radiation to reach the retina. Never use regular sunglasses to look at the Sun during an eclipse.”
The Home Office recommends two safe approaches to enjoying and making most of the rarity of the occasion:
- Specialist eclipse viewers- make sure they have specially designed filters and lenses are in perfect condition.
- Indirect viewing methods- a homemade pinhole viewer or viewing the Sun's image projected through a colander or the gaps between tree leaves
Where to watch
Events across East Sussex could be the best spot to watch the spectacular.
Seaford – Martello Tower, Lewes Astronomical Society will host a free eclipse event.
Lewes Astronomical Society's free eclipse event will be based at Martello Tower in Seaford and will be set up from 6pm.
A spokesperson from Lewes Astronomical Society said: "This is set to be the best Eclipse the UK has seen since 1999, and the best one we'll have again for decades.
"We truly hope as many people as possible take the opportunity to witness this event, and for those able to reach Seaford, we will be holding a public viewing event at the Martello Tower, where we will have eclipse glasses available, as well as our solar telescope. It will be a fantastic experience for anyone who can make it.
“In order to make the most of the event, you should use properly certified eclipse glasses, and any telescopes or cameras should have suitable solar filters attached over the front of the lens, rather than the eyepiece!
"You can also use pinhole projection with two sheets of paper, or the trusty colander to view safely if you haven't got access to that other equipment.
“The eclipse will happen shortly before sunset, so you need a good, unobstructed view of the horizon to see it at its best.”
More information about the event is available via their Facebook page.
Uckfield- East Sussex National Golf Centre- Solar eclipse workshop and viewing
Perfect for families and individuals- combining creativity, community and the wonder of the skies above.
- Create your own woven sun mandala in a guided workshop.
- Enjoy a complimentary sun themed mocktail courtesy of the East Sussex National Hotel.
- View the partial eclipse (91.4%) together with ISO certified solar eclipse safety glasses.
Family ticket (up to 5 people) is priced at £48 & an individual ticket is £15.
For more information on Uckfield event visit: https://gostargazing.co.uk/events/solar-eclipse-workshop-and-viewing-at-the-east-sussex-national-golf-centre/
Hailsham- Observatory Science Centre & Museum- SOLD OUT
The science centres website says: “To celebrate the eclipse, we’re extending our opening hours from 10:00am until 8:30pm, with the party beginning at 5:00pm. Whether you’d like to spend the whole day with us or just come for the evening, it’s all included with your standard day admission.
“Experience the eclipse safely using special eclipse viewing glasses and solar telescopes, guided by our knowledgeable team. Enjoy a tasty BBQ and Bar as well as fun family-friendly activities.
However, the end is sold out and those without a pre-booked ticket will not be allowed in.