A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the Sun's light and casting a shadow on Earth. This creates a brief period of darkness during the day, allowing us to see the Sun's corona (outer atmosphere) with the naked eye.
Total solar eclipses are among the most spectacular natural phenomena visible from Earth. The 2026 eclipse will be particularly special as it will be visible from several regions in Spain, making it accessible to millions of people.
18:30 UTC
The Moon begins to cover the Sun, creating a crescent shape. This phase lasts about an hour.
19:30 UTC
The Moon completely covers the Sun, creating total darkness. This is the most spectacular phase.
19:32 UTC
The peak of totality, when the eclipse is at its maximum. Duration varies by location.
19:34 UTC
The Moon begins to move away from the Sun, ending the total phase.
The August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse is particularly significant for several reasons:
The eclipse path will cross Spain from northwest to southeast, passing through several autonomous communities. The width of the path of totality will be approximately 200 kilometers, giving many people the opportunity to witness this rare event.
Major cities along the path include:
Total solar eclipses have been observed and recorded throughout human history. Ancient civilizations often interpreted these events as omens or signs from the gods. Today, we understand the science behind eclipses, but they remain awe-inspiring events that bring people together.
The last total solar eclipse visible from Spain occurred in 1959, making the 2026 eclipse a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people. The next total solar eclipse visible from Spain won't occur until 2027, making this event even more special.
Total solar eclipses provide unique opportunities for scientific research:
To make the most of this rare event, proper preparation is essential. This includes:
Visit our Locations and Safety pages for detailed information on how to prepare for this amazing event.