Total Solar Eclipse on August 12: What You Need to Know
A total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026, marking the first such event visible in mainland Europe since 2006. The path of totality will span northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and Portugal. This rare celestial event happens when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth, casting a narrow band of shadow across our planet.
The total eclipse will be visible in a specific region, known as the “path of totality,” which will start in northern Russia and then cross over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and the northeastern tip of Portugal. In Spain, the eclipse will move from the northern city of Oviedo to the island of Mallorca. The eclipse will also cross over areas that have been hit by devastating fires in Spain, which scientists say were made more likely by human-driven climate change.
For observers in Spain, the total eclipse will last under two minutes, just before sunset. The northern city of Burgos, for example, will be plunged into darkness for exactly one minute and 48 seconds. However, partial eclipses, which occur as the Moon starts and finishes crossing the Sun, will last around one hour and 45 minutes. Partial eclipses will also be visible in most of Europe, Canada, the northern United States, and northwest Africa.
It’s essential to note that one or two solar eclipses occur roughly every year, but the small band of totality means that the same area may wait 400 years before seeing another one. NASA will be live-streaming the event on August 12, starting at 1:15pm ET (1715 UTC), so you can watch the eclipse from anywhere.
People planning to watch the eclipse should remember to use specifically designed eclipse glasses that filter UV rays and meet the standard ISO 12312-2:2015. It’s crucial not to look directly at the Sun during an eclipse, as it can cause serious eye damage. Experts warn that there are no pain receptors in eyes to warn the brain they are being injured, so problems only appear later.
If you’re interested in watching the eclipse, you can check NASA’s live stream on August 12. Additionally, there will be another total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027, which will cross southern Spain, northern Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. Its totality will last six minutes and 23 seconds.
For those in the UAE, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments has called for an eclipse prayer during the Blood Moon on September 7. While the total solar eclipse on August 12 will not be visible in the UAE, residents can still watch the live stream and learn more about this rare celestial event.
In conclusion, the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, is a rare and significant event that will be visible in parts of Europe. It’s essential to take necessary precautions when watching the eclipse and to use specifically designed eclipse glasses to avoid eye damage.
