Near total solar eclipse takes place in central London

More than 90 per cent of the Sun was obscured as the Moon crossed over central London

Last updated: August 13, 2026 | 11:49

1 MIN READ

Dubai: A near-total solar eclipse was visible over Westminster in central London, as the Moon passed directly between Earth and the Sun, blocking more than 90 per cent of the Sun’s disk. The rare celestial event briefly transformed daylight conditions, with the sky taking on a noticeably darker appearance.

People gathered across the capital to witness the spectacle, creating striking views of the partially obscured Sun above London’s iconic skyline.

Video: AFP

A near total solar eclipse, with more than 90 percent of the Sun blocked by the Moon across Britain, is pictured behind Elizabeth Tower (R), more commonly known as Big Ben, in central London on August 12, 2026.

People gather to watch a near total solar eclipse, with more than 90 percent of the Sun blocked by the Moon across Britain, from Primrose Hill in London on August 12, 2026.

A woman (C) holds a piece of paper showing the eclipse refracted from binoculars, as people gather to watch a near total solar eclipse, with more than 90 percent of the Sun blocked by the Moon across Britain, from Primrose Hill in London on August 12, 2026.

People use special protective glasses as they watch a near total solar eclipse, with more than 90 percent of the Sun blocked by the Moon across Britain, from Primrose Hill in London on August 12, 2026.

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