Europe solar eclipse: Spectacular photos capture rare celestial phenomenon as millions gather to catch glimpse
Millions of skywatchers across Europe looked to the heavens as the Moon moved directly between Earth and the Sun, creating a spectacular total solar eclipse in parts of the continent.
Millions of skywatchers across Europe looked to the heavens on Wednesday as the Moon moved directly between Earth and the Sun, creating a spectacular total solar eclipse in parts of the continent for the first time in 27 years.
The eclipse was visible in totality along a narrow path stretching across northern Spain, Iceland and parts of Greenland, as well as parts of Portugal.
For those fortunate enough to be inside the path, daylight briefly gave way to darkness as the Moon blocked the Sun’s bright disc.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona, became visible around the dark silhouette of the Moon, one of the defining sights of the solar eclipse.
Much of the rest of Europe experienced a partial eclipse, with the Moon covering only part of the Sun to reveal a noticeably darker sky.
The eclipse’s journey began at the northern tip of Siberia in Russia and travelled over the Arctic before the path of totality swept across Greenland and Iceland, crossed the North Atlantic and reached Spain and Portugal.
At its longest, totality lasted about two minutes and 18 seconds, although the exact duration varied depending on the observer’s location within the path.
In Spain, huge crowds gathered at viewing locations and cheered as they watched on in awe as the skies went dark during the spectacular celestial event.
Eclipse chasers won’t have to wait long to witness another major event, with another total solar eclipse set to cross Spain’s south in August 2027, according to NASA.
Greenland also attracted eclipse watchers from around the world who were keen on catching a glimpse of the spectacle.
The phenomenon also came with an important warning as looking directly at the Sun during the partial phases can cause serious eye damage, and ordinary sunglasses don’t provide adequate protection.
Special-purpose eclipse glasses or approved solar filters are required and were seen being sported by skywatchers in Spain.
