Scientists said the northern lights could theoretically be visible during the total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026 [1].
This rare intersection of celestial events would provide a unique opportunity to witness two atmospheric phenomena simultaneously. While a total eclipse creates the darkness necessary to see the aurora borealis, the timing and solar conditions make such an occurrence unlikely.
Totality will be visible across Europe, the Arctic, and North America [2]. High-latitude regions, including Iceland, Canada, and the northern U.S., are positioned best for viewing [3]. In the U.S., the event begins at 7:34 a.m. Alaska Standard Time and concludes at 2:52 p.m. Eastern Time [4]. Some other U.S. states will experience a partial eclipse [5].
For an aurora to appear, geomagnetic activity must be high enough to push solar particles into the atmosphere. During totality, the Sun is completely covered, which makes the sky dark enough for these lights to become visible to the naked eye [1]. However, the Aug. 12, 2026, eclipse occurs near a solar minimum [1].
Solar minimum is a period of low solar activity, meaning fewer solar flares and coronal mass ejections to trigger auroras. Additionally, the eclipse takes place at a time of day when aurorae are rarely visible [1].
Experts remain divided on the probability of the event. Some scientists said it is possible to see the northern lights during totality [3]. Others said the odds are stacked against the occurrence due to the current solar cycle [1].
Despite the low probability, millions of people are expected to attempt to witness the eclipse [2]. Observers in the Arctic and northern latitudes will have the best chance of seeing both events if a sudden spike in solar activity occurs during the window of totality.
“The odds are stacked against seeing the aurora during the eclipse.”
The potential for a dual celestial event depends entirely on unpredictable solar weather. While the geometry of the eclipse provides the necessary darkness, the underlying solar cycle is in a dormant phase, making a simultaneous aurora sighting a statistical outlier rather than a likely occurrence.
