Total solar eclipse of 2026 to sweep across northern hemisphere
A total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 will cross Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, the Atlantic, Spain, and a corner of Portugal, while a partial eclipse will be visible in 26 U.S. states.
Key points
- The path of totality covers Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, the Atlantic, Spain, and part of Portugal.
- A partial eclipse will be seen in 26 U.S. states, but totality is not visible in the country.
- The eclipse will occur around midday in most affected areas, with local times and cloud cover available on an interactive map.
- Dr. Jane Harrison notes the eclipse causes a sudden drop in temperature and an eerie twilight.
- Special eclipse glasses or solar filters are required to safely view the event; regular sunglasses are not adequate.
The world is abuzz with anticipation as a total solar eclipse is set to cross the Northern Hemisphere, with the path of totality stretching across Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, the Atlantic Ocean, Spain, and a small corner of Portugal.
Eclipse Path and Local Times: Where to Watch in Spain, Portugal and North America
The August 12 solar eclipse will cast its shadow over a significant portion of the Northern Hemisphere, offering a rare astronomical experience to millions. From Spain to Portugal, and even parts of the United States, skywatchers are gearing up to witness this phenomenon
The partial solar eclipse will be visible in 26 US states, although the total eclipse will not be seen from the country. This event is particularly significant for those in the path of totality, where the Moon will completely obscure the Sun, creating a breathtaking celestial event.
Eclipse Visibility and Timeline
The exact time of the solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, will vary depending on the location, but the total eclipse is expected to occur around approximately midday in most affected areas.
Exact local times and city-by-city coverage percentages are available for viewers across the globe.
An interactive map is available to help skywatchers determine the precise times and average cloud cover for their specific locations.
“The total solar eclipse is a profound experience. It's not just about the visual spectacle but also the way it affects the environment, the sudden drop in temperature, and the eerie twilight that falls midday,” says Dr. Jane Harrison, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory, GreenwhichSafety Tips for Viewing the Eclipse
While the August 12 solar eclipse promises to be a mesmerizing sight, it is crucial for viewers to take necessary precautions. Directly looking at the Sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause permanent damage to the eyes. Special eclipse glasses or solar filters should be used, and it is advised to avoid using regular sunglasses for this purpose. The best way to observe the eclipse is through a solar filter or by using a pinhole projector.
The next solar eclipse after this one will not occur until 2027, making this event all the more special for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Your questions, answered
When will the total solar eclipse of 2026 occur?
The total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026, around midday in most affected areas.
Which U.S. states will see a partial eclipse?
A partial solar eclipse will be visible in 26 U.S. states.
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