A total solar eclipse will cross parts of Europe in August 2026, with a partial eclipse visible across roughly 25 percent of Earth. Observers in Spain, Portugal, Iceland, Greenland, and northern Africa will experience totality when the Moon blocks the Sun completely.
The eclipse path stretches across specific geographic zones. Spain's southern regions and Portugal will see totality between approximately 11:50 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. local time. Iceland and Greenland will experience the phenomenon in the early afternoon. Northern Africa, including parts of Libya and Somalia, will receive totality as the shadow races eastward.
For those outside the totality path, a partial eclipse will be visible across Europe, the Middle East, western Asia, and northern Africa. The degree of coverage depends on distance from the total eclipse path. Locations farther north or south will see the Moon cover less of the Sun's disk.
Observers should prepare properly. Standard eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 certification protect eyes from solar radiation. Telescopes and cameras require solar filters. Without protection, direct sunlight can cause permanent retinal damage within seconds.
Timing varies by location. In Portugal, maximum eclipse occurs around 12:30 p.m. For Greenland, totality begins around 12:45 p.m. Greenwich Mean Time. Observers planning travel should account for weather patterns and cloud cover, which historically affect eclipse viewing in Europe.
Planning ahead matters. Popular eclipse locations fill quickly as the date approaches. Booking accommodations months in advance helps secure viewpoints. Local astronomy clubs and scientific institutions often organize viewing events and provide guidance.
The 2026 eclipse represents a rare opportunity for European observers. The previous total solar eclipse visible from Europe occurred in 1999. The next won't arrive until 2081. This makes August 2026