A truly spectacular event is coming to Lancashire
A truly spectacular event is set to take place this Wednesday evening, as the partial solar eclipse is set to be visible across the UK where 90-96% of the sun will slowly disappear behind the moon.
Times will vary slightly across the UK but the initial visible signs of the sun disappearing behind the moon are estimated to be visible in Lancashire from 18:13 with the Eclipse maximum (when most of the sun is covered) is expected to fall at about 19:10 and the event expected to have finished at 20:04
Stay safe
A vital warning from experts is to avoid looking at the sun even when it appears to have dimmed during the eclipse. Looking with the naked eye could cause severe, permanent damage to eyesight. Certified solar eclipse glasses are available and recommended.
Where?
Experts have recommended for the best experience to view from higher ground or areas with a clear view towards the western horizon. Check out this small list below of some organized events taking place, to stay up to date with the latest information be sure to check out the contact details below.
Rossall Promenade
From 5pm join Blackpool & District Astronomical society on Rossall Beach Promenade for a public observing session to observe the partial solar eclipse. Safety filtered solar-viewing equipment will be on hand and the team will be ready to answer any questions about the eclipse or astronomy in general.
Location: Rossall Beach Promenade, FY5 1LP | W3W: ///undivided.examiner.rejoin
Pleasure Beach Resort
Pleasure Beach Resort is set to host a large-scale viewing within the park as guests are invited to gather on the park's overpass in an attempt to create what would be one of the largest group gatherings in the North West. Opening hours have been extended until 8pm and the first 1,000 guests will receive free solar eclipse glasses, meaning you can watch the eclipse safely right until the end.
Location – Overpass located beside the Wallce & Gromit Thrill-O-Matic ride.
Contact- Pleasure Beach Resort
Moor Park, Preston
University of Lancashire are hosting a free public event to help people experience the UK's first deep solar eclipse in over a decade. Astronomers from the university and the Preston and District Astronomical Society will host a free event for the local community in Moor Park from 5:45 – 8pm.
If the weather is clear the team will set up solar scopes and projection facilities in the park across from Deepdale stadium and provide eclipse glasses. If the weather appears to be unsuitable the team will instead base themselves at the moor park observatory to live stream the eclipse from other clear locations.
What 3 words meeting location ///basket.dating.lift
Poor weather revised location what 3 words /// bumpy.price.await
Contact - (4) Facebook
Fairhaven Lake
Local Methodist churches are inviting people from across the Fylde Coast to join for a free Community Solar Eclipse Picnic. The event is open to everyone and aims to create a welcoming community gathering. Visitors are invited to bring a picnic, blanket or folding chair and enjoy the evening by the coast.
The event will include:
- Safe solar eclipse viewing glasses provided free of charge (while stocks last)
- A local astronomer offering guidance and explaining the science behind the eclipse
- Complimentary bubble tea and sweet treats
- A warm welcome and opportunities to meet members of the local Methodist churches
Location – Near the Spitfire Memorial at Fairhaven Lake
Don't forget about the Perseid Meteor Shower!
The Perseid Meteor shower is expected to peak on Wednesday night into Thursday morning, just after the solar eclipse. According to Nasa 50-100 meteors per hour may be visible. Some of the more spectacular meteors can be visible from city centres, however for the best experience it is recommended to visit an urban area away from the light pollution – making the dark skies sites in Lancashire the perfect viewing spot.