Topic overview
In brief
- A total solar eclipse will occur in mainland Spain in August 2026, the first in over a century.
- The eclipse will be visible as a partial eclipse in regions including Alaska, Canada, and much of Europe.
- This event is expected to attract many observers and will be accompanied by other celestial phenomena.
Summary
In August 2026, a total solar eclipse will sweep across mainland Spain, marking the first occurrence of such an event in over a century. This astronomical phenomenon will begin near the North Pole and track southward, with totality lasting up to two minutes and 18 seconds. The eclipse will not only be a spectacle for those in Spain but will also be visible as a partial eclipse in regions as far away as Alaska and Siberia, covering Canada, the northern United States, and much of Europe and West Africa. The closer one is to the path of totality, the more significant the sun's coverage will be, with 94% visibility in Dublin and 83% in Oslo, Norway.
The event is expected to attract eclipse chasers and astronomy enthusiasts from around the world, eager to witness the solar spectacle. In addition to the eclipse, the day will feature a unique cosmic display, with six neighboring planets forming an arc in the sky before dawn, followed by the peak of the Perseid meteor shower after nightfall. This combination of celestial events promises to create a memorable experience for observers.