A rare celestial event is set to light up the skies over Europe next Wednesday, with a solar eclipse visible from Hungary. While a total eclipse will be visible from parts of Spain and Iceland, observers in Hungary will be treated to a spectacular partial eclipse – and those in the western part of the country will have the best view.
Because the eclipse will occur shortly before sunset, location will play a particularly important role in determining how much of the Sun can be seen being covered by the Moon.
Sopron will have the best view
The westernmost parts of Hungary will be in the most favourable position for watching the eclipse. Sopron and its surroundings are expected to offer the best view, with almost 86% of the Sun covered by the Moon before the Sun disappears below the horizon.
The timing of the event means that the further west observers are, the greater the extent of the eclipse they will be able to see.
For comparison, observers in Spain, the Balearic Islands and Iceland will be able to experience a total solar eclipse, while Hungary will remain outside the path of totality. Even so, the partial eclipse promises to be a remarkable sight for anyone interested in astronomy, Időkép writes.
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How to watch the eclipse safely
Choosing the right location will be essential. Since the Sun will already be very low in the sky, buildings, trees and hills could easily block the view. An open location with a clear, unobstructed western horizon will therefore offer the best chance of seeing the event.
It is also important to protect your eyes.
Never look directly at the Sun without proper certified solar viewing glasses or an appropriate solar filter. The fact that the Sun will be close to setting does not make direct viewing safe.
Clear skies could offer perfect conditions
The weather forecast currently suggests favourable conditions for observing the eclipse, with largely clear and cloudless skies expected across much of Hungary on Wednesday. That could provide excellent viewing conditions for the rare celestial spectacle – even as the country continues to experience hot summer weather.
For those hoping to catch the eclipse, heading to an elevated or otherwise unobstructed location in and around Sopron could offer the most spectacular view Hungary has to offer.
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