On the evening of Wednesday, August 12th, people across Germany will witness the country's most impressive partial solar eclipse (Sonnenfinsternis) in decades, as the Moon blocks 85 to 90 percent of the Sun's light shortly before sunset.
Observers in parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain can experience a total solar eclipse, but Germany lies just outside the path of totality. So seen from Germany, the eclipse will not amount to the near night-time darkness.
Still, the event promises a remarkable display. With only a thin crescent of sunlight remaining visible, many parts of the country will notice a distinct dimming of daylight.
Solar eclipses occur somewhere on Earth every year, but total eclipses can only be seen from a narrow corridor a few hundred kilometres wide. As a result, any one location experiences them only rarely. Germany's last total solar eclipse was in 1999, and the next visible from German soil isn’t due until September 2081.
For anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of the spectacle this time round, choosing the right viewing spot and using proper eye protection will be essential.
Also on Wednesday the Perseid meteor shower is expected to reach its annual peak just hours after the eclipse, while a large partial lunar eclipse will follow on August 28th.
Where and when to watch the solar eclipse
The eclipse will begin between roughly 7:10pm and 7:25pm, depending on your location. It will reach its maximum shortly after 8pm in Germany and continue until sunset, with northern parts of the country enjoying slightly longer viewing times.
Freiburg is expected to enjoy one of the best views in Germany, with around 90 percent of the Sun obscured.
For the best view, experts recommend finding a location with an unobstructed horizon. Because the Sun will be very low in the sky throughout the event, elevated locations such as hills can improve visibility.
Weather will also be a deciding factor. Even a thin bank of cloud near the horizon could spoil the spectacle, so checking local forecasts and choosing a flexible viewing location may help maximise your chances of a good view.
Don't forget eclipse glasses
Looking directly at the Sun is dangerous, even when most of it is covered by the Moon. Ordinary sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection.
Experts recommend eclipse glasses certified to the DIN EN ISO 12312-2:2015 standard, which are widely available from astronomy retailers, science museums, planetariums, some opticians and pharmacies, and major online retailers.
Prices are relatively modest. Multi-packs typically cost around €12 to €19 for between five and 12 pairs, while some specialist sellers offer individual glasses for as little as €2.50.
It’s also important to remember that eclipse glasses do not make binoculars, telescopes or cameras safe. Those devices require dedicated solar filters fitted to their optics.
More treats in the night sky
In addition to the solar eclipse, August 12th also marks the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, often considered the year's most impressive display of shooting stars. Once darkness falls, observers could see dozens of meteors streaking across the sky, assuming it’s a clear night.
Then, on August 28th, a large partial lunar eclipse will be visible from Germany during the morning as the Moon sets.
The timing is no coincidence. Solar and lunar eclipses often occur within about two weeks of each other because both require the Sun, Earth and Moon to line up in space.
