.jpeg?trim=0,9,0,7&crop=&width=640&quality=70&enable=upscale)
Crowds gathered last night to witness the biggest solar eclipse of this millennium so far - a natural phenomenon that will not be repeated for more than 50 years.
The beaches in Southsea, Eastney, Stokes Bay and Lee-on-the-Solent busy, and plenty of people headed to high ground such as Portsdown Hill and Butser Hill. On Southsea Common there were entertainers such as fire dancers among families picnicking or simply there to witness the moment the earth darkened.
Here are a selection of great pictures from around the area, including the main image that was created by Damon Vincent in Bosham, West Sussex - thanks to all of our contributors.
9. The eclipse on August 12, 2026 seen through the rigging of HMS Warrior Jonty Simmonds
The eclipse on August 12, 2026 seen through the rigging of HMS Warrior Jonty Simmonds | Jonty Simmonds
.jpeg?trim=334,0,334,0&crop=&width=800)
10. Nish Kaa's picture of the eclipse from Hilsea in Portsmouth
Nish Kaa's picture of the eclipse from Hilsea in Portsmouth | Nish Kaa
11. Dave Taylor took this eclipse picture from the Isle of Wight August 12, 2026
Dave Taylor took this eclipse picture from the Isle of Wight August 12, 2026 | Dave Taylor
12. People gather at Lee-on-the-Solent for the eclipse on August 12, 2026
People gather at Lee-on-the-Solent for the eclipse on August 12, 2026 | Joseph Raine