The majestic spectacle of the total solar eclipse is thrilling millions and has prompted a torrent of e-mails to BBC News Online. Delights, disappointments and photographs have been flooding in since just after totality drew darkness over the UK.

Many hundreds have already sent messages and the flow is increasing as people across the European continent begin to share their cosmic experiences. By noon on Wednesday, more than 20 e-mails were arriving every minute, and the rate was increasing.

The total eclipse also prompted the most intense usage ever of the video streamed by BBC News Online, of the UK eclipse and then following totality eastwards.

The site is also bringing the latest news from Cornwall to India, plus comprehensive background. Users can also relive the eclipse through recorded video files.

Eclipse by e-mail

Colin Myles sent in his view from Cambridge, UK

Nicky Hill, in Sweden, told BBC News Online how e-mail had added to his enjoyment: "It was an amazing sight, but the most amazing thing was continuously comparing notes via e-mail with my brother David who lives in North Wales. Isn't technology great!"

In England, Ian Gow said the total eclipse made our small presence in the Solar System particularly obvious: "It was a rare occasion when you actually felt the magic and sheer presence of space and the planetary movements at first hand."

The eclipse was only partial in Switzerland, from where Jim Burns told BBC News Online: "Through gaps in the clouds, I glimpsed a beautiful, cold light from the Sun."

E-mails from countries further afield have also come in including Canada, Iceland, Russia and Pakistan. BBC News Online has even had emails from Brazil, where the eclipse is not visible at all, praising the coverage.