A rare total solar eclipse is expected to pass over northern Spain on August 12, marking the first time a total solar eclipse will be visible from mainland Europe since 2006.
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking out sunlight. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), this alignment briefly turns daylight into twilight, causes local temperatures to drop, and alters animal behaviours as the Moon covers the Sun to reveal its outer atmosphere, known as the corona.
The path of total darkness will begin in a remote region of northern Russia and move across Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and parts of Portugal. In Spain, towns from Oviedo to the island of Mallorca will experience up to one minute and 48 seconds of total darkness shortly before sunset, while surrounding regions across Europe, Canada, and Africa will see a partial eclipse.
Total solar eclipses are rare for specific geographic locations because the Moon’s shadow covers only a narrow path on Earth. However, Spain is positioned to witness two more major astronomical events shortly after: a total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027, predicted to be the longest of the 21st century and an annular “ring of fire” eclipse on January 26, 2028.
Medical experts have issued strong warnings advising the public never to look directly at the Sun during any phase of the eclipse without certified eye protection. Experts recommend using specialized eclipse glasses that meet international safety standards, warning that looking at the Sun unprotected can cause permanent, painless eye damage that may not be immediately noticeable.
