Astronomical alignment where Moon shadows Earth during new moon
The Buck Moon has reached fullness, appearing at its brightest just after sunset and visible across most of the UK on clear nights. The Royal Observatory notes the Moon is also known as the Thunder Moon and Hay Moon, reflecting summer storms and the July hay harvest. Forecasters expect mostly clear skies with mild temperatures for viewing.
A total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026 has passed across Greenland, Iceland and parts of northern Spain while the UK and Ireland have seen a deep partial eclipse — the most extensive visible from Britain since 1999. Scientists have collected coronagraph and in‑flight data to study the Sun’s corona and short‑term atmospheric effects; safety warnings about direct viewing were widely issued.
Ancient beliefs about solar eclipses have evolved into modern science. France 24 and Independent recount how eclipses shaped astronomy from Babylonian predictions to Einstein, while modern observers prepare for a total solar eclipse across Europe.
Octopus Energy has urged customers to avoid running dishwashers, washing machines and similar plug‑in appliances between 6pm and 8pm on Wednesday as a solar eclipse blocks up to 95% of sunlight. The move aims to reduce peak demand and solar shortfall, with customers offered two hours of free electricity next weekend for taking part in the demand‑shifting. Regulators warn of potential grid stress and highlight flexible demand as a national resource.
The UK faces a surge in demand for specialist eclipse glasses ahead of Wednesday’s solar eclipse. Shops report rapid sell-outs and restocks are strained; experts urge safe viewing methods, with many advising indirect viewing or certified glasses.
A band of Europe witnesses a rare solar eclipse, with totality across parts of Spain, Iceland and Portugal. The event is being observed with safety warnings as millions prepare to view the sky-darkening phenomenon; high public interest is accompanied by safety campaigns and warnings about eye damage.
A solar eclipse has drawn thousands of spectators across the North East and Cumbria, with observers calling the event phenomenal and marking the moment as a rare, shared experience.
The Welsh pop icon Bonnie Tyler has died aged 75 in Portugal. A funeral service is held at Swansea Minster with a private cortege through her hometown of Skewen, following public tributes in Mumbles. Family and friends celebrate her life, reflecting on a career that produced Total Eclipse of the Heart and Holding Out For A Hero.