Spectators on the icy Norwegian islands of Svalbard cheered and clapped as they watched the moon eclipse the sun.

The solar event lasted for about 2.5 minutes, and a ring of fire - the corona - was clearly visible under clear skies.

While the total eclipse could only be seen in Svalbard and the Faroe Islands, a partial one thrilled people across parts of Europe, Asia and Africa.

Sky gazers used safety glasses, viewing boxes and even exposed x-ray film to protect their eyes while admiring the celestial spectacle.