Total solar eclipse to cross Greenland, Iceland and Spain

A total solar eclipse will sweep across Greenland, Iceland, and mainland Spain on Aug. 12, 2026 ^[1].

The event marks a rare astronomical alignment that will plunge entire regions into darkness during the day. It provides a critical opportunity for scientists to study the solar corona and for millions of observers to witness a total eclipse.

The phenomenon occurs when the Sun, Moon, and Earth align perfectly, causing the Moon's shadow to fall directly on the Earth's surface ^[1]. This specific alignment will create a path of totality spanning 5,133 miles ^[2]. While the total eclipse is limited to specific regions, a partial eclipse will be visible across much of Europe, the Arctic, and North America ^[3].

For mainland Spain, the event is particularly historic. This will be the first total solar eclipse to cross the Spanish mainland in more than 100 years ^[4]. Residents in these areas will experience the full disappearance of the Sun, while those in the broader European region will see only a portion of the solar disk obscured.

Observers in Greenland and Iceland will also be positioned within the path of totality. The shadow's trajectory across the Northern Hemisphere will make this one of the most widely viewed total eclipses in recent history, affecting multiple continents simultaneously ^[3].

Astronomers said that the visibility of the eclipse depends heavily on local weather conditions. Those planning to view the event are reminded to use certified solar filters to avoid permanent eye damage.