A total solar eclipse is crossing parts of Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and Portugal today, August 12, 2026 [1].
This event marks the first time since August 11, 1999, that a total solar eclipse has occurred over mainland Europe [3]. Because the Moon completely blocks the Sun's disk, the event provides a rare opportunity to view the solar corona, but it also presents significant risks to ocular health.
NASA issued warnings urging the public to use certified eclipse glasses or indirect viewing methods to protect their eyes [2]. Looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can cause permanent eye damage [2].
The path of totality—the area where the Sun is completely obscured—traverses a specific corridor including Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and Portugal [2]. Outside of this narrow path, viewers will see a partial eclipse, which still requires specialized eye protection to avoid injury.
NASA said that the alignment occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun [2]. This celestial synchronization creates a period of darkness during the day for those located within the path of totality [2].
Observers are encouraged to use projection methods, such as a pinhole projector, if certified glasses are unavailable. NASA said that these indirect methods allow people to witness the event safely without risking their sight [2].
“The 2026 eclipse is the first mainland European total eclipse since 1999.”
The rarity of a mainland European total eclipse since 1999 likely increases the volume of amateur observers in the path of totality. This surge in public interest necessitates high-profile safety campaigns from agencies like NASA to prevent a spike in retinal burns and other permanent vision impairments caused by improper viewing techniques.
