Solar eclipse: where and how to see it

To help people choose a suitable viewing location, the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF) has made an online map available (which can be viewed by clicking here). The map shows eclipse visibility conditions in different areas, taking into account whether there is a clear view of the western horizon. As the partial solar eclipse will occur around sunset, observers will need to find a location with an unobstructed view to the west, while also considering the presence of buildings, hills, mountains and other obstacles. It is therefore not enough to know what percentage of the solar disc will be covered; the topography of the observation site must also be taken into account. Eclipse times will vary by a few minutes depending on geographical location. In general, the first contact between the Moon and the Sun will occur between 19:27 and 19:38, while the maximum observable phase will be reached between 19:52 and 20:22. Moving from north-west to south-east, both the visible duration of the eclipse and the percentage of the solar disc covered will gradually decrease.

Before observing the eclipse, remember to wear appropriate eye protection (sunglasses or other forms of protection are not sufficient) and keep it on at all times. According to international health organisations (WHO, CDC and Prevent Blindness), a solar eclipse does not pose any direct risk to human health, such as effects on pregnancy, but looking directly at the Sun, even briefly, can cause permanent eye damage. It is therefore essential to use protective glasses specifically designed for direct solar viewing and labelled “ISO 12312-2”.