Skywatchers across Portugal, including Madeira and the Azores, will have the chance to witness a spectacular celestial event on the 12th of August, when the first total solar eclipse visible from the country in almost a century takes place.
The eclipse will begin at around 18.30, reach its maximum at approximately 19:30 and conclude by 20.30. It will be visible across the country, although the best views are expected from west-facing locations with an unobstructed horizon.
The only place in Portugal where the eclipse will be total is the Montesinho Natural Park, in the Bragança region, where the Moon will completely cover the Sun for around 26 seconds.
Elsewhere on the mainland, around 93% of the Sun will be obscured. In Madeira and the Azores, the eclipse will be partial, with between 74% and 77% of the Sun expected to be covered.
Authorities are reminding the public never to look directly at the Sun during the eclipse without appropriate eye protection. The event should only be viewed using certified eclipse glasses, as ordinary sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection and can result in permanent eye damage.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
Photo: JM/GAL
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