Sky watchers throughout Sussex can witness the biggest partial solar eclipse since 1999 on Wednesday, 12 August.

The rare astronomical phenomenon, visible across Britain and Ireland, will occur when the New Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, leaving only a thin crescent of sunlight visible. It will be the largest partial solar eclipse in more than 25 years, and another of a similar scale will not be seen until 2081.

In Sussex, the eclipse begins at 6.18pm, reaching maximum coverage at 7.14pm and ending at 8.07pm.

Anyone planning to observe should do so safely. Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection. Sunglasses, smoked glass, photographic filters, gelatine filters and crossed polarisers are not suitable. Instead, use specially designed solar viewing glasses that protect against infrared and ultraviolet radiation.

Biggest partial solar eclipse in 25 years to be visible across Sussex this week. Photo: I. Torres.

placeholder image — Biggest partial solar eclipse in 25 years to be visible across Sussex this week. Photo: I. Torres.

For those keen to experience the eclipse with expert guidance, South Downs Planetarium in Chichester is hosting a ticketed observing event from 6pm to 8.15pm. If skies are clear, visitors can use specialist glasses for safe solar viewing. If cloud gets in the way, the eclipse will be livestreamed from another location.

The Observatory Science Centre & Museum in Hailsham is also holding an ‘eclipse party’, although tickets have now sold out. Organisers have asked people not to attend without a pre-booked ticket.

The eclipse will be visible throughout Sussex, but those looking to watch with others can join in organised viewing events at several locations across the county, where solar viewing glasses will be available either for free or to purchase.

In West Sussex, observation is planned at Aldwick Beach Café in Bognor Regis, Chichester Yacht Club, Goring Gap with Worthing Astronomers, and The Beach Café in Littlehampton.

In East Sussex, viewing events are taking place at Beachy Head with Eastbourne Astronomical Society, Grosvenor Gardens in St Leonards-on-Sea, The Bale House Visitor Centre in Hastings, the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea, the East Sussex National Golf Centre in Uckfield, and the Martello Tower in Seaford.

More details on different areas:

Where to watch today’s solar eclipse in Crawley – and expert safety tips and photography advice.
Where to watch the solar eclipse in Eastbourne.
Where to watch today’s solar eclipse in Horsham.
Where to watch the solar eclipse in Lewes.
Where to watch today’s solar eclipse in Worthing.
Best places to view the eclipse in Hastings and Bexhill.
Is this Mid Sussex spot the best place to view the solar eclipse?
Worthing Astronomers to host free solar eclipse event.