THE Met Office has revealed the best locations to view Scotland's fullest solar eclipse for the next 54 years on Wednesday – with Devon and Cornwall the top destinations for the event.
More than 90% of the sun will be obscured by the moon between 6.17pm and 8.06pm on August 12, the most it has been blocked above UK skies since the total eclipse in 1999.
Those most keen to catch a sight of the fullest possible solar eclipse should avoid the easternmost parts of the UK, where only 88% to 90% of solar coverage is expected.
These include the coasts of Norfolk, Yorkshire and Aberdeenshire, as well as the Orkney and Shetland Islands.
Where is the best place to see the solar eclipse in Scotland?
Westernmost parts of Scotland can expect to see 92% to 94% solar coverage, however, there is a significant amount of cloud cover forecast for Wednesday night in both the west and the east of the country.
Glasgow, Central Scotland, Edinburgh and the Lothians are much the same, with the clearest views at the time of peak eclipse coverage appear to be in the south with Dumfries and the Scottish Borders.
What have the Met Office said about the eclipse?
Met Office spokesman, Grahame Madge said: “Skies across southern Scotland should be largely clear and bright at the time of the eclipse. However, northern and western parts of Scotland could experience cloudier conditions.
"The hourly-feature on the Met Office weather app will provide a good steer for people living in those regions potentially affected by cloud.
"Those expecting to see the event will need to have uninterrupted views to the western horizon. You can check this over the next two nights by looking to see if you can see the sun from your planned location around 7pm."
Why can't you look at a solar eclipse?
Looking at a solar eclipse directly can cause permanent eye damage.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the Sun's "reduced brightness can override the body's natural reflex to look away, allowing intense sunlight to reach and damage the retina".
How to look at an eclipse safely
It is advised to look at an eclipse using special eclipse glasses, which are certified with ISO 12312-2 or ISO 12312-2:2015.
The eclipse can also be viewed safely through a pinhole finder, by projecting the Sun's image onto paper using a pinhole projector, by holding up a colander and looking at its shadow, or by looking at the shadows cast by leaves on the ground.
Where can I buy solar eclipse glasses?
Many independent opticians and selected branches of major chains such as Jessops, Boots and Specsavers stock certified eclipse glasses.
They can also often be found in museums and observatories, particularly in gift shops.
You can also find eclipse glasses online, but ensure they meet the specific certification.
