FLORENCE, ITALY – Italians were gearing up Thursday to watch Friday’s solar eclipse, which will begin around 9.30 am and end around 11.45 local time. In Rome, the eclipse – which in Italy will be only partial – is due to reach its maximum coverage at 10.32 am.
Skies are expected to be clear across much of the peninsula, allowing a good view of the once-in-a lifetime event. In Italy the passage of the moon between the earth and the sun will lead to around 70% coverage of the sun in northern regions and 50% in Rome.
Astrophiles were organising special events up and down the country, while school children were on standby with special visors to watch the event. “It will be a truly special event” tweeted Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti in anticipation of the eclipse which she will watch from her vantage point on the International Space Station.