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Sky gazers are hoping for decent view of tomorrow's solar eclipse despite fears low cloud may hamper sightings.

In the morning, the moon will pass in front of the sun, shadowing its light and creating a twilight period.

Scotland will experience this as a deep partial eclipse - from the Western Isles 98% of the sun will be obscured by the moon.

However, cloud and mist may affect sightings of the eclipse.

A blanket of mist covered the islands this morning and visibility was still restricted in the afternoon.  

In an effort to get a better view, boat trip operator Kilda Cruises is running a special solar eclipse sighting voyage to St Kilda tomorrow morning.

The Met Office said: “For the Western Isles we do expect there to be a fair bit of cloud around and there is a chance of some coastal fog developing.

“However, it’s also possible there could be the odd break or thinner patch of cloud.

“With that in mind, it’s worth heading out to take a look with the appropriate viewing equipment.

“Even if it’s cloudy, it will still get noticeably darker and you may just catch a better glimpse of there are any gaps in the cloud.

Kilda Cruises say it is forecast to be clear at St Kilda.

After viewing the eclipse against such a spectacular backdrop, passengers can go ashore and explore the island before their customary tour around the stacks and Boreray.

The boat departs Leverburgh at 5am.

 

Fog and cloud risks spoiling eclipse viewing

19 March 2015