09/08/2026
ππ One evening. Two spectacular celestial events. A night sky full of possibilities.
Wednesday 12 August could be a very special night for skywatchers, with a rare combination of events taking place within just a few hours.
First up, the UK will experience its deepest partial solar eclipse since 1999, with the Moon covering up to 96% of the Sun in some parts of the UK. In Herefordshire, the eclipse begins at 6.15pm, reaches its maximum at 7.12pm and ends at 8.06pm. β¨
Then, as daylight fades, the attention turns upwards once again...
The Perseids meteor shower reaches its peak overnight on 12β13 August. With a New Moon bringing exceptionally dark skies, those who find somewhere away from light pollution could be treated to an incredible display, with the potential for up to 100 meteors an hour under ideal conditions. π
So, why not make an evening of it?
π Find somewhere with a clear, open horizon for the best possible view of the eclipse.
πΆοΈ Watch safely using proper solar eclipse glasses or another approved solar viewing method. Never look directly at the Sun through ordinary sunglasses, cameras, binoculars or telescopes without the correct protection.
π Once darkness falls, stay somewhere with as little artificial light as possible and as much open sky as you can.
π Give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness and avoid bright screens where possible.
π§£ Take something warm to sit or lie back on, settle in and enjoy the show!
Herefordshire has some of England's darkest skies, and its wide-open landscapes offer plenty of opportunities to find a spot with a clear horizon and low levels of light pollution.
Making a night of it in Herefordshire? Our Stargazers' Guide to Herefordshire includes ideas for combining stargazing with a delicious supper. β¨
π Find the guide via the link in the first comment.
Wherever you are watching from, we hope you get the chance to experience this very special night. ππ β¨