LOCAL skywatchers are in for a cosmic treat this evening and tonight, with a rare solar eclipse is set to be followed just hours later by the peak of the Perseid meteor shower. The once-in-a-generation eclispse is due to begin over Fermanagh at around 6.10pm this evening, Wednesday, August 12, reaching its maximum at 7.09pm before ending shortly after 8pm. AdvertisementAlthough the eclipse will not be total in Ireland, it will be the biggest eclipse visible from the island until 2090, making it a particularly special event for local skywatchers. The Perseid meteor shower is due to reach its peak overnight, offering another chance to see one of the year’s best-known meteor displays. With a new moon providing darker skies, conditions could be particularly favourable if cloud stays away.