Partial Solar Eclipse on 12th August 2026

Visit us at the AIP campus in Babelsberg and enjoy exciting talks about the Sun, as well as a live observation session of this fascinating celestial event. Starting at 5 pm, Dr Christian Vocks will give a talk entitled ‘Solar eclipses – total, partial, annular’. At 6 pm, Dr Carsten Denker will provide insights into modern solar research using large-scale instruments such as the PEPSI instrument in Arizona. Afterwards, from 7 pm, you will have the opportunity to observe the solar eclipse together with scientists from the AIP in Babelsberg Park.

A solar eclipse is a rare astronomical event. It occurs when the new moon passes exactly between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light. The Moon's shadow then falls upon the Earth's surface. During the solar eclipse on August 12, the Moon moves in front of the Sun at 7:15 p.m. Maximum obscuration—reaching 85%—occurs at 8:08 p.m. As the Sun sets at 8.38 pm, the end of the solar eclipse will not be visible in Potsdam.

Important note: Please refrain from looking directly at the Sun without protection. This will lead to permanent damage to your eyes. Our observation station will provide special solar filters so that you can enjoy the experience safely.

The event on 12 August 2026 connects two astronomical events: a partial solar eclipse, visible throughout Germany in the evening, and the peak of the Perseid meteor shower in the following night.

We look forward to welcoming you – admission is free.

Program on 12th August 2026

• 5 to 5:30pm
  Talk — Dr. Christian Vocks
  „Sonnenfinsternisse — Total, partiell, ringförmig“
• 6 to 6:30pm
  Talk — Dr. Carsten Denker
  „Moderne Sonnenforschung mit Instrumenten wie PEPSI“
• 7 to 9pm
  Sun observation at Castle Babelsberg

More information on the Long Night of Astronomy 2026: https://www.lange-nacht-der-astronomie.de