A total solar eclipse will cross Iceland and Spain on 12 August 2026 [1], bringing totality to parts of Europe.
This event marks the first total solar eclipse in 28 months [6]. It provides a rare opportunity for scientists and the public to observe the sun's corona, the outer atmosphere of the sun, which is typically hidden by the solar disk.
The path of totality will move across Iceland and Spain [3]. In these regions, the moon will completely block the sun, casting the landscape into temporary darkness. Outside the path of totality, millions of people will witness a partial eclipse.
In the United Kingdom, observers will see a deep partial eclipse [1]. Some parts of the UK will experience up to 96% obscuration of the sun [2]. While the sun will not be fully covered in Britain, the significant drop in light is expected to be noticeable.
North America will also witness the event as a partial eclipse [4]. In the U.S., the eclipse window begins at 7:34 a.m. AKST [4] and concludes at 2:52 p.m. ET [5]. Because the moon will not fully cover the sun in the U.S., viewers must use specialized solar filters or eclipse glasses to avoid permanent eye damage.
Astronomers said that the alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth creates these precise paths of visibility. While the total eclipse is localized to specific regions of Europe, the partial effects span several continents, making it a global celestial event.
“The first total solar eclipse in 28 months”
This eclipse serves as a critical window for solar research, particularly regarding the corona. Because total eclipses are geographically limited and infrequent, the 2026 event allows European research institutions to conduct ground-based observations that are otherwise impossible without specialized satellites.
