A major solar eclipse is set to cover 96pc of the sun in Ireland, with the phenomenon expected to be visible across the country.
Space enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the event, which will be the largest eclipse visible from Ireland until 2090.
Solar Eclipse Details
The eclipse is scheduled to start at around 6.15pm on 12 August, reach its maximum an hour later, and end at around 8.08pm.
It will be visible from various locations, including Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, the Atlantic Ocean, Spain, and a portion of Portugal.
Across the world, parts of northern US, much of Canada, much of Europe, and north-western Africa will also witness the phenomenon.
In Ireland, Cork is best-positioned to watch the eclipse, with 96pc of the sun expected to be covered at the eclipse’s peak.
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Viewing Events and Safety Precautions
Several gatherings are scheduled across the country for viewers to enjoy the astronomical phenomenon, including Maynooth University, which is organising a watch party alongside a live planetarium show, arts and crafts activities for kids, and short talks.
Munster Technological University (MTU)’s Blackrock Castle Observatory is providing 6,500 free solar eclipse glasses through select locations across Cork.
Astronomy experts from the Observatory have advised that anyone looking directly at the sun should wear certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses.
Ordinary sunglasses do not promise adequate protection, they warned.
Cameras, binoculars, and telescopes require correctly fitted solar filters, while pinhole projectors offer a safe, indirect alternative.
Dr Niall Smith, the head of research at MTU and head of MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory, said Cork’s position in the south-west means it is Ireland’s best-positioned major city for the solar eclipse, and Ireland’s natural ‘Eclipse Capital’.
It will be a spectacular moment and a rare opportunity for people across Cork to experience a major astronomical event together.
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Safety must be at the centre of everyone’s plans.
There will be no point during the eclipse when it is safe to look directly at the sun without certified eclipse glasses or another approved viewing method.
MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory is organising free public activities that will also take place at the observatory – as well as Tramore Valley Park and Bell’s Field in Cork – with members of the public getting the opportunity to meet astronomy experts, learn about safe eclipse viewing, and enjoy music and family activities.
Public Activities and Viewing Opportunities
Visitors can also enjoy solar eclipse lino-printing and pinhole-projector activities planned for the gathering Tramore Valley Park and Bell’s Field.
As the eclipse approaches, astronomy enthusiasts are reminded to prioritize their safety and use approved viewing methods to avoid any potential risks.
Solar eclipses are relatively rare, and this event is expected to be one of the most significant in recent history, with people interested in Solar eclipses eagerly awaiting the phenomenon.
