Solar Eclipse 2026 Set

The Solar Eclipse 2026 Mint Set brings together four Isle of Man stamps celebrating the spectacular partial solar eclipse of 12th August 2026. Created in partnership with Manx astronomer Howard Parkin MBE BSc. BEd. FRAS, the issue explores the science, history and wonder of one of nature’s most remarkable phenomena.

From the Isle of Man, the Moon covered 93.1% of the Sun at 19:09, creating dramatic views under mostly clear skies shortly before sunset and moonset. Observers in Port Erin, Niarbyl, Peel and along the west coast of the Island enjoyed particularly memorable scenes as only a thin sliver of sunlight remained visible above the Moon.

The issue explains how the Sun and Moon can appear almost the same size from Earth, allowing total solar eclipses to occur, while also exploring the differences between total, partial and annular eclipses. It introduces the umbra and penumbra and examines the history of eclipses seen from the Isle of Man, including observations dating back to 1185.

The collection also looks ahead to the next total solar eclipse visible from the Island in 2151.

Featuring striking imagery by Ed Benson and Sue Jones, this four-stamp set provides a fascinating celebration of a memorable astronomical event from a distinctly Manx perspective.