On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of the Northern Hemisphere, marking the first time such an event has occurred in Europe since 1999. The celestial phenomenon will trace a path of totality across Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, Spain, parts of Portugal, and the Atlantic Ocean.
According to NASA, a total solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow that fully blocks the sun’s face. This period of “totality” allows observers within the path to see the sky darken and witness the sun’s corona. Outside this narrow path, observers will experience a partial solar eclipse.
A Unique Sunset Experience
The 2026 event is particularly notable for its geometry, as totality will occur very close to sunset for many observers. In eastern Spain and the Balearic Islands, the eclipse will be a “sunset eclipse,” occurring at a low altitude near the horizon.
In Mallorca, for example, the sun will be totally eclipsed for 1 minute and 36 seconds while positioned just 2.7 degrees above the west-northwestern horizon. Astronomers note that because the moon’s shadow will approach as the day naturally fades, the landscape will dim more rapidly than during a standard sunset. The whitish solar corona is expected to take on an orangey hue, mirroring the color of the sun and moon as they approach the horizon.
Observers in the Balearics are positioned at the very end of the eclipse path. Experts suggest that as totality ends, the moon’s shadow will begin to lift off the planet, potentially appearing on distant haze or clouds.
The “Path of Totality” and Prime Viewing
While major cities like Madrid and Barcelona fall just outside this path, they will experience a deep partial eclipse. For instance, Madrid will see a 99.96% partial eclipse, which, while dramatic, will not produce the total darkness, temperature drop, or visible corona associated with totality. For those seeking the full experience in Spain, experts recommend positioning at elevated parks, riverbanks, or coastal areas with unobstructed views of the west-northwestern horizon. Several cities in the Castilla y León and Aragon regions are highlighted as prime locations:
| Location | Time of Totality (CEST) | Duration |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Valladolid | 8:29 p.m. | 1m 29s |
| Palencia | 8:29 p.m. | 1m 42s |
| León | 8:28 p.m. | 1m 44s |
| Zaragoza | 8:29 p.m. | 1m 23s |
| Burgos | 8:28 p.m. | 1m 44s |
Partial Eclipse Visibility in North America
While the total eclipse is limited to specific regions in Europe, Asia, and the Arctic, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across North America. From Alaska to North Carolina, as well as parts of southern Canada, observers will see a “bite” taken out of the sun.
An Added Celestial Bonus
The 2026 event offers a secondary spectacle: the Perseid meteor shower. The shower is set to peak during the new moon on the night following the eclipse. NASA considers the Perseid the “best meteor shower of the year,” and the timing of the new moon provides optimal dark-sky conditions for viewing.
Because the path of totality is narrow, those planning to witness the total eclipse are encouraged to finalize travel arrangements early and verify their chosen locations for potential obstructions, such as buildings or trees, before the event.
Find more reporting in our Science section.
