Three Scottish cities named best places in UK to see next week’s solar eclipse

THREE Scottish cities have been named the best locations in the UK to watch next week’s solar eclipse.

A solar eclipse is when the moon casts a shadow on Earth after it passes between the planet and the sun.

The sun is expected to set at around 8.10pm across the UK and Ireland on April 8.

But only a few people will be able to see the partial eclipse.

Residents in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow are predicted to have the best chance of viewing the phenomenon.

UK Weather Updates shared on social media platform X the best places to see the event.

It wrote: “Lots of talk within the US community about the solar eclipse on the 8th of April; while parts of the UK and Ireland will be able to see it too, there will be a very short opportunity for it, as the eclipse will take place at sunset shortly before the sun goes below the horizon.

“Western parts of Ireland are at the greatest chance due to a later sunset time.”

It found that Glasgow had the highest obscuration rating at 11.2% followed by Edinburgh at 6.2% and then Aberdeen with 4.3%.

It estimates the event will be viewable from 7.54pm to 8.06pm in Glasgow, with Edinburgh having four minutes less.

People in Aberdeen are estimated to have only seven minutes starting from 7.53pm and ending at 8pm.

The best place to see it in the UK and Ireland is in Belmullet at 44.02%.

It has been advised to wear appropriate eye protection if planning to watch the partial eclipse.

Professor Don Pollacco, an astronomer from Warwick University, said that the visibility path of a total eclipse is “extremely narrow” at around 80 miles.

He adds: “From the UK and Ireland, you will see a partial eclipse of the sun close to sunset, with about 20% to 30% of the sun obscured by the moon.

“With no protection, you will at best damage your eyes, or you could blind yourself.”