People from across Staffordshire are being invited to make the most of a rare celestial event this summer as a partial solar eclipse becomes visible across the UK on Wednesday 12 August.
The eclipse will begin around 7.10pm, with the Moon appearing to pass in front of part of the Sun as it sits low in the evening sky.
Keele University are hosting a viewing of the solar eclipse from their campus, free of charge, in partnership with the Newchapel Observatory.
This will take place at the edge of the playing fields on Barnes Hall Road opposite the Islamic Centre. Please note that the event will not be at Keele Observatory, which will be closed.
While solar eclipses are fascinating to observe, council officers are reminding people never to look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection. Instead, residents are advised to use certified eclipse glasses or indirect viewing methods, such as a pinhole projector, to enjoy the event safely.
Anyone planning to view the eclipse outdoors is being reminded to take extra care given the major risks of fires due to the hot weather and extremely dry ground. Be careful not to leave litter and to avoid naked flames.
Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said:
"A solar eclipse is a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to experience something quite memorable.
“The last eclipse visible from the UK took place in March 2025. If you are going to catch it this time round, please do it safely by using approved viewing equipment and following the guidance provided by experts. And remember if you are planning to view it outdoors or in the countryside please be extra careful as there’s an increased risk of fires as the ground is so dry.”
