"It was amazing": Solar eclipse inspires a new generation of stargazers
The eclipse saw more than 90% of the sun obscured by the moon across much of the UK
Last updated 13th Aug 2026
Last night's solar eclipse has sparked interest in astronomy among young skywatchers, with experts hoping the event could inspire a new generation to look more closely at the night sky.
More than 90% of the sun was obscured by the moon across many parts of the UK, making it the most significant solar eclipse visible from the UK and Ireland since the solar eclipse on August 11th 1999, which was seen in totality from Cornwall and the Channel Islands.
While some people managed to get hold of eclipse glasses, supplies were limited in the days leading up to the event, with numerous retailers selling out.
Many viewers embraced a DIY approach, transforming cereal boxes into pinhole projectors and repurposing kitchen colanders to safely enjoy the rare spectacle.
Among those watching last night's phenomenon was nine-year-old Tiana, who described the eclipse as "amazing".
"I loved when the moon went in front of the sun," she said.
To watch the event, she also made her own pinhole projector from a cardboard box and tin foil.
"It was just a really amazing moment"
Her mother, Kirsti Ware, said the eclipse had captured her daughter's imagination even before it happened.
"She was doing a little project herself on the solar eclipse and why it happens," she said.
"She drew a poster about it and included safety information about wearing the goggles. Since then she's wanted to watch films about space, planets and aliens, so I think it's definitely sparked an interest in astronomy for her."
Kirsti said sharing the magical moment together made it even more memorable.
"I remember watching the eclipse in 1999 when I was actually younger than Tiana, so it was nice to see it with my own daughter."
Dr Nick Hewitt, chairman of the Northamptonshire Natural History Society's Astronomy Section and a former president of the British Astronomical Association, said eclipses often act as a gateway into a wider interest in science and astronomy.
"There are a variety of ways forward," he said. "Joining a local club, reading books and learning more about astronomy are all great places to start."
"Astronomy is a fantastic hobby"
He said while eclipses are among the most dramatic celestial events people can witness, there is plenty more to discover.
"Total eclipses are one of the highlights, but there are lots of other things to see in the night sky.
"Looking at the planets is always fun. Looking at galaxies and star clusters is a lovely thing to do on an evening."
Dr Hewitt said young people inspired by the eclipse could spend years exploring the subject, with future eclipses providing just one reason to keep looking skywards.