The Scientific American guide to 2026’s total solar eclipse
Here’s everything you need to know about this eclipse, from the weather to the best viewing locations
A total solar eclipse is set to occur on August 12, 2026, offering sky-gazers a rare opportunity to witness the moon pass directly in front of our star. This celestial event, part of a special report by Scientific American, will be live-streamed and captured from Iceland and Spain. The eclipse will begin and end on August 12, with viewers in northern Russia, Alaska, and northern Canada experiencing it in the morning, while Europe will see it in the evening.
In Iceland, the partial eclipse will start at 4:47 PM local time, with total darkness lasting just over a minute from 5:48 PM to 5:49 PM. Spain's Valencia will witness the eclipse begin at 7:38 PM local time, with totality ending at 8:33 PM. The entire event will wrap up after sunset at 9:01 PM. NASA will provide live coverage at 1:15 PM EDT.
For those outside the path of totality, a partial eclipse will still be visible. Safety is paramount when viewing the eclipse, with the use of ISO 12312-2 compliant eclipse glasses or other safe viewers mandatory. Telescopes, binoculars, and cameras must be equipped with solar filters to prevent eye damage.
Written by urgent.news from Scientific American's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
