The best places to view the solar eclipse across the UKBy Megan EavesLater today, a major solar eclipse will take place over the UK shortly before sunset – the last event of its kind until 2081. The next total solar eclipse over the UK will be in 2090. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow across a portion of the Earth’s surface and obscuring the Sun’s light for a few minutes. This year’s eclipse occurs in the evening, starting at around 6.15pm and ending a little after 8pm. The excitement doesn’t end at sunset, though, as this year’s eclipse occurs during the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, offering the best chance of the year to see shooting stars after dark.