🌑 August 12, 2026 — Solar Eclipse in Spain

Type: Total Solar Eclipse

On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will cross parts of Europe, and Spain will be one of the most accessible, spectacular locations to experience this rare event. This eclipse will be the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Europe since 1999 and offers observers the chance to witness daytime darkness as the Moon completely blocks the Sun. Time and Date+1

---

What to Expect

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, completely covering the Sun’s bright disk and briefly turning day into twilight. During this fleeting moment—known as totality—the Sun’s corona (outer atmosphere) becomes visible, creating a breathtaking and unforgettable sky view. Wikipedia

From within the path of totality, observers will see the sky darken, planets and stars may become visible, and temperatures can drop noticeably.

---

Where & When

The August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse begins over the Arctic Ocean and crosses Greenland and Iceland before reaching Spain near the northwestern coast. Eclipse Atlas

In Spain, the path of totality will pass across northern regions, offering observers a chance to see the total eclipse shortly before sunset. Totality will be visible in parts of:

• Galicia
• Castile and León
• Aragón
• Northern Spain toward the Balearic Islands

Across northern Spain, totality in some locations will last up to about 1 minute and 49 seconds before the Sun sets near the western horizon. Space

Cities like Madrid and Barcelona will experience a deep partial eclipse just outside the path of totality. Space

---

Safety

⚠️ Safety first — protect your eyes.

• Except during the brief total phase, it is never safe to look directly at the Sun without certified solar eclipse glasses or a proper solar filter.
• Looking at the Sun through cameras, binoculars, or telescopes without a proper solar filter can cause permanent eye damage.
• Safe indirect viewing methods—such as a pinhole projector—are also excellent ways to watch the eclipse.

Only during the totality phase, when the Sun’s bright disk is completely hidden, is it safe to briefly view the eclipse directly with your eyes. NASA Science

---

Quick Facts

• Date: August 12, 2026
• Type: Total Solar Eclipse
• Best Viewing Location: Northern Spain (within the path of totality)
• Spain’s First Total Eclipse Since: 1999 (Europe) Time and Date

---

Don’t Miss It

🌑 Experience one of Europe’s rare total solar eclipses this summer.
Prepare early, choose your viewing location along the path of totality, and make sure you have proper solar viewing protection—this is a once-in-a-generation event for many skywatchers and travelers alike.

 

🌑 August 12, 2026 — Total Solar Eclipse in Spain

Eclipse Timeline (Spain – Approximate) 

⚠️🌅 Special Note:
In much of Spain, this eclipse occurs very close to sunset, creating a rare and dramatic viewing experience with darkened skies and a glowing horizon.

---

Best Places to Watch the 2026 Solar Eclipse in Spain

Spain offers some of the best infrastructure and accessibility in Europe for eclipse viewing. Below is a practical comparison to help viewers choose the right location.

🇪🇸 Galicia (Northwest Spain)

Why choose it:

• Longest duration of totality in Spain
• Ocean sunsets create dramatic visuals
• Less light pollution in rural areas

Things to consider:

• Higher chance of cloud cover compared to eastern regions

Best for:
Photographers, experienced eclipse chasers, scenic coastal viewing

---

🇪🇸 Castilla y León

Why choose it:

• Central location with wide open landscapes
• Easier travel from major Spanish cities
• Good balance between duration and accessibility

Things to consider:

• Inland haze possible during summer evenings

Best for:
First-time eclipse viewers, families, organized group viewing

---

🇪🇸 Aragón (Northeast Spain)

Why choose it:

• Higher probability of clear skies
• Elevated terrain improves horizon visibility
• Longer twilight after totality

Things to consider:

• Slightly shorter totality than western regions

Best for:
Clear-sky seekers, astronomy enthusiasts

---

🇪🇸 Balearic Islands

Why choose it:

• Clear Mediterranean skies
• Unique island viewing experience
• Excellent tourism infrastructure

Things to consider:

• Totality duration is shorter
• Popular areas may be crowded

Best for:
Travelers combining eclipse viewing with vacation

---

Safety Reminder

⚠️ Never look at the Sun without proper protection, except during the brief totality phase.

• Use ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses for all partial phases
• Cameras, binoculars, and telescopes require solar filters
• Only during totality is it safe to view with the naked eye
• Indirect methods like pinhole projectors are always safe

---

Quick Facts

• Date: August 12, 2026
• Type: Total Solar Eclipse
• Best Viewing Country in Europe: Spain
• Timing: Evening eclipse near sunset
• Visibility: Total eclipse in northern Spain, partial elsewhere

---

Don’t Miss This Rare Event

🌑 A total solar eclipse over Spain is a rare opportunity.
Plan ahead, choose your viewing location wisely, and make sure you’re equipped with proper solar viewing protection to enjoy this unforgettable celestial event safely.