Spanish astronomy is gearing up for a historic milestone with the arrival of the first total solar eclipse visible from Spain in over a hundred years. This phenomenon, which will traverse the country from west to east on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, will not occur again with these characteristics until 2053.
Although the path of total darkness will primarily affect the northern half of the peninsula, residents in the Canary Islands will be able to witness a large-magnitude partial eclipse, just before the Sun dips below the horizon.
According to data from the National Astronomical Observatory (OAN), the eclipse will begin to be visible in the Archipelago in the late afternoon. A spectacular sight is expected with the Sun partially covered, very close to the horizon. The phenomenon will be similar in both Canary provinces, reaching a magnitude of 0.75, meaning 75% obscuration.
Key details for the eclipse in the Canary Islands indicate that it will start at 6:58 PM, reach maximum intensity at 7:53 PM (with the Sun at an altitude of 10.6°), and end at 8:45 PM. Experts recommend seeking elevated areas or coastal spots with clear westward visibility for the best observation.
For those planning to travel to the mainland, the path of totality, where daytime will turn into night for a few minutes, will cross Galicia and pass through cities such as A Coruña, Oviedo, León, Bilbao, Burgos, Zaragoza, and València, concluding in Palma de Mallorca.
The eclipse's peak globally will occur near Iceland at 7:46 PM (peninsular time), with a totality duration of 2 minutes and 18 seconds. In Spain, due to its coincidence with sunset, totality will last approximately 76 seconds in A Coruña and about 104 seconds in Burgos.
The National Geographic Institute (IGN) emphasizes the importance of safe observation. Looking directly at the Sun without adequate protection, or using X-rays or conventional sunglasses, is strongly discouraged. The use of certified eclipse glasses or projecting the image via optical systems is mandatory to prevent serious eye injuries. The IGN has published an informative leaflet with practical advice.
This event on August 12 marks the beginning of a series of eclipses in the Iberian Peninsula, with another total eclipse scheduled for August 2, 2027, and an annular eclipse on January 26, 2028.
