Clouds Obscure Partial Solar Eclipse: Next Opportunity in August 2026

The recent partial solar eclipse, where the moon passed in front of the sun, was highly anticipated across Germany. However, weather conditions did not cooperate in many regions, leading to disappointment for those hoping to witness the celestial event. The best visibility was reported in the western and northwestern parts of the country, according to local astronomy experts.

On Saturday, the partial solar eclipse commenced in the western regions of Germany, with the first phases observable in cities like Cologne, Frankfurt, and Hamburg. Observers in these areas saw the maximum coverage of the sun, while in the southern and southeastern regions, many were left waiting for clearer skies.

The German Weather Service had previously predicted these conditions, indicating that only certain areas, such as a strip from Schleswig-Holstein to Saarland, would have optimal viewing conditions. In contrast, the eastern regions experienced limited visibility, with some observers able to catch glimpses through sporadic cloud cover.

The eclipse began around midday, with specific timings varying by location. For instance, in Cologne, it started at 11:18 AM, with the peak occurring around 12:10 PM. The percentage of the sun obscured by the moon varied significantly across the country. In Kiel, approximately 22% of the sun was covered, while in Berlin and Munich, the figures were lower, at 15% and 11%, respectively.

Across Europe, the eclipse was also visible in regions including Greenland, parts of northwest Africa, and Newfoundland, contingent upon local weather conditions.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon aligns perfectly between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow on parts of the Earth. Such events happen when the new moon crosses the Earth's orbital plane; however, due to the tilt of the moon's orbit, they do not occur every month.

For those who missed this event, another opportunity for viewing a partial solar eclipse will arise on August 12, 2026, when over 80% of the sun will be obscured. The next total solar eclipse visible from Germany will not occur until 2081.