Total Solar Eclipse Visible Across Europe on Aug 12, 2026

A total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of the Northern Hemisphere on August 12, 2026, offering a rare celestial spectacle for millions of observers. The path of totality, where the moon completely obscures the sun, will cross the Arctic Ocean, eastern Greenland, western Iceland, and northern Spain before concluding over the Mediterranean Sea. This event marks the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Europe since 2006 and the first in mainland Spain since 1905.

The eclipse will begin with a partial phase before totality, which will last a maximum of two minutes and 18 seconds over the North Atlantic between Greenland and Iceland. In northern Spain, totality will be shorter, lasting up to approximately one minute and 50 seconds, and will occur close to sunset, potentially creating dramatic views of a darkened sun low on the horizon. A partial eclipse will be visible across a much wider area, including most of Europe, northwest Africa, and parts of North America.

Authorities and astronomers emphasize that safe viewing is paramount. Looking directly at the sun without proper, certified eye protection can cause permanent eye damage. Special eclipse glasses that meet...