Millions of people across Europe looked to the skies on Wednesday as the moon moved in front of the sun, briefly plunging parts of the continent into darkness. In Spain, hundreds of thousands of spectators travelled to areas along the path of totality to watch the rare event. The total eclipse lasted for exactly 1 minute and 18 seconds in some locations.
The solar eclipse was visible along a strip of less than 300km wide stretching from north-western Europe towards the south-east and the Balearic Islands, including Mallorca. The moon’s shadow also reached a small part of Portugal. In other parts of Europe, people experienced a partial eclipse.
Solar Eclipse Draws Huge Crowds Across Spain
At the Ebro Observatory in north-eastern Spain, spectators watched in silence as the moon completely covered the sun. The sun appeared as a black disc surrounded by a glowing ring, prompting cheers, applause, tears and moments of silence among those watching.
The total eclipse began in northern Siberia before moving across Greenland and Iceland. It reached Spain at about 8.30pm local time, while people elsewhere across Europe witnessed a partial eclipse.
[Drone Strike On Russian Black Sea Beach Kills Seven, Including Three Children]
Spain generally experienced favourable viewing conditions, although temperatures approached 40°C in some areas. In Reykjavik, Iceland, clouds and rain prevented many people from getting a clear view of the total eclipse.
Solar Eclipse Leaves Millions Of Britons Watching The Sky
Millions of people in Britain also gathered to watch the solar eclipse, with the moon covering more than 90% of the sun in some areas. Viewing locations included the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, and Calton Hill in Edinburgh.
[Pregnant South African Woman Detained By ICE At Las Vegas Airport]
The rare event prompted reactions from crowds as the sky became noticeably darker. Some spectators described the sight with exclamations including “wow”, “oh my god” and “this is so cool”.
One couple even planned their wedding a year in advance to coincide with the eclipse. The event is not expected to be seen again in Britain in the same way until later this century.
How A Solar Eclipse Turns Daylight Into Darkness
SEE TODAY'S TOP HEADLINES ACROSS LEADING PUBLICATIONS
A solar eclipse occurs when the sun, moon and Earth align, allowing the moon’s shadow to fall across Earth. Areas within the moon’s umbra experience totality, while locations within the surrounding penumbra see a partial eclipse.
During totality, daylight can almost disappear as the moon blocks the sun. Temperatures can fall and stars may become visible while the sun is briefly hidden behind the moon.
