It's been over 25 years since Europe last witnessed a total solar eclipse. The skies briefly darkened on August 11, 1999, as the Moon covered the Sun and cast its shadow across parts of the continent.
Now, the wait is almost over. On August 12, 2026, a spectacular total solar eclipse is coming back to Europe. And this one promises to be truly unforgettable.
In this video, we’ll explore where you can see it, how long it lasts, and what exactly makes a total solar eclipse so mesmerizing.
The 2026 eclipse starts its journey in the Arctic, passing over Greenland, then sweeps across Iceland, and finally makes its dramatic entrance into northern Spain just before sunset.
Spain is the best place in mainland Europe to see it. Cities like Oviedo, León, Zaragoza, and even Valencia will witness the Moon completely cover the Sun — turning day into twilight for up to 1 minute and 48 seconds.
Madrid and Barcelona? Close — but just outside the path of totality. You’ll only get a partial eclipse there.
Iceland will also get a stunning view, with up to 2 minutes and 18 seconds of totality, especially off its western coast.
A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on Earth.
If you're in the path of that shadow — called the path of totality — the Sun is completely blocked, and you can see the solar corona — the Sun's outer atmosphere — with your naked eye.
The sky darkens, stars and planets appear, and temperatures drop. It's one of the most powerful natural spectacles you can experience.
During totality, the sky transforms. In Spain, you'll likely see Venus, Jupiter, and maybe Mercury low on the horizon.
In Iceland, the Sun will be higher in the sky, and you’ll get a better view of bright stars like Vega, Capella, and Pollux.
And if you're lucky, you might even catch a meteor from the Perseids, which peak the very next night.
This is Spain’s first total eclipse since 1905, and Iceland’s first since 1954. The next chance for a similar event in Europe? Not until 2027, and even then, only parts of southern Spain will see it.
So if you're anywhere near the path — plan ahead. Book a viewing spot, check the weather, and bring eclipse glasses.
Remember — totality only lasts a few minutes. But the memory? It'll last a lifetime.
Let us know in the comments where you’ll be watching the 2026 eclipse. And don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more astronomy videos. Clear skies!
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