On the calendar
Eclipses
When the sun, Earth and moon line up exactly.
When and where to look
A few times a year somewhere on Earth. Lunar eclipses are visible from half the planet at once; a total solar eclipse may not cross the same place for centuries.
Why it happens
A lunar eclipse is Earth’s shadow crossing the full moon, often turning it a deep red; anyone who can see the moon can watch it. A solar eclipse is the moon passing in front of the sun, and it is only seen along a narrow path.
The next dates
- Annular solar eclipse, Saturday 6 February (UTC)
- Penumbral lunar eclipse, Saturday 20 February (UTC)
- Total solar eclipse, Monday 2 August (UTC)
- Penumbral lunar eclipse, Tuesday 17 August (UTC)
How to catch one
- Lunar eclipses are safe to watch with your eyes; binoculars show the colour.
- Never look at the sun directly, even when it is partly covered. Use eclipse glasses or a pinhole.
- Check whether an eclipse is visible from where you are before you plan around it.
Nature notifications
Wildlife, seasonal changes, weather and sky events near you.