European Space Agency to live stream total solar eclipse - when to watchHere's how to watch the total solar eclipse from one of the world's best viewing pointsView 2 Images The total solar eclipse is just hours away (stock photo) (Image: Getty)Millions across the UK are preparing to watch the solar eclipse this evening. ‌The broadcast is ideal for stargazers who want to see the total eclipse, not just a partial one. ESA says the total solar eclipse will be visible from Greenland, Iceland and parts of northeastern Portugal and Spain, while much of the rest of Europe will see a partial eclipse. ‌The space agency explains that a total eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth, blocking sunlight and casting a shadow across the planet. Where you sit within that shadow determines whether you see totality or a partial eclipse.