A solar eclipse on August 12 will be visible from Belgium, reaching an 89.6% obscuration level. According to the Paris Observatory, this event represents the most significant eclipse for the country since August 11, 1999. While Belgium will experience a partial eclipse, a total eclipse will traverse Greenland, Iceland, Portugal, and Spain.
What will the solar eclipse look like in Belgium?
The Paris Observatory’s space service reports that Belgium will see a partial solar eclipse with 89.6% obscuration. This high level of coverage makes it the most intense eclipse visible in the region since 1999. The event is expected to last approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes.
The timing for the observation in Belgium is as follows:
- Eclipse begins: 19:19
- Maximum obscuration: 20:13
- Eclipse ends: 21:05
The sun is scheduled to set at 21:06, meaning the phenomenon will conclude just before sunset.
Where is the best location to view the eclipse?
Observers should prioritize locations with a clear view of the west or north-west horizon. Because the sun will be low on the horizon during the maximum obscuration at 20:13, any obstructions in these directions will block the view. The Paris Observatory notes that coastal areas and the western parts of Belgium will provide the most effective conditions for watching the event.
How can you safely watch the sun?
Even at 90% obscuration, the solar corona will not be visible, and looking directly at the sun remains dangerous. The Paris Observatory states that observers must use ISO 12312-2 certified glasses for the entire duration of the event to prevent eye damage.
If certified eyewear is unavailable, experts suggest two safe alternatives:
- Pinhole method: Using a small hole to project the image of the sun onto a surface.
- Natural shadow projection: Observing the shape of the sun as it is reflected through natural shadows.
Where will the path of totality travel?
While Belgium sees a partial eclipse, a total solar eclipse will move across several other territories. The path of totality begins in Russia and moves through the Arctic Ocean near the North Pole. It then reaches northeastern Greenland, where the moon’s shadow will travel at speeds exceeding 3,400 km/h. In Greenland, totality will last up to 2 minutes and 18 seconds.
The shadow will then move toward Iceland, providing Reykjavik with its first total eclipse since 1954. Finally, the path will cross the Atlantic to reach Portugal, northern Spain, and the island of Majorca.
Comparison of Eclipse Visibility
| Location | Eclipse Type | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Belgium | Partial | 89.6% obscuration |
| Greenland | Total | Up to 2m 18s duration |
| Reykjavik, Iceland | Total | First since 1954 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to look at the eclipse without glasses?
No. Even though the sun is 90% covered, looking at it without ISO 12312-2 certified protection is dangerous to your eyes.
When is the best time to watch in Belgium?
The maximum obscuration occurs at 20:13.
Why is this eclipse significant for Belgium?
It is the highest percentage of obscuration the country has seen since the eclipse on August 11, 1999.
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