Agência Espacial Norte-Americana (NASA) confirmed that on August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will occur visible in several regions of Espanha. The phenomenon will last a maximum of 1 minute and 32 seconds in the totality phase at specific points along the route. The event marks the first total eclipse observed on the Iberian peninsula since 1912.
The trajectory of the lunar shadow will cross the north and east of the country, including cities such as Bilbao, Burgos, Zaragoza and Valencia. Nas Ilhas Baleares it will also be possible to observe totality, while the rest of Spanish territory will have a partial eclipse. As Ilhas Canárias will be outside the totality band.
Eclipse trajectory and times
The eclipse will begin as a partial in the west of Europa at around 6:30 pm local time. The total phase will start at 7:30 pm at Galícia and will advance towards Mediterrâneo. The point of longest duration will occur near Burgos.
- Start of partiality: 6:28 pm (peninsular Espanha time)
- Start of totality: 7:30 pm at Galícia
- Maximum duration: 1 minute and 32 seconds close to Burgos
- End of totality: 7:38 pm on Valencia
- End of partial: 8:35 pm at Baleares
Spanish government preparations
The Spanish government created an interministerial commission with 13 ministries to coordinate actions related to the event. The group works on traffic management, public safety and accommodation for the expected increase in visitors.
The affected autonomous communities develop specific mobility plans. Autoridades estimate a large flow of tourists on roads and airports close to cities in the totality range.
Trio of eclipses at Espanha
The 2026 eclipse is part of a rare sequence of three phenomena observable in the country in less than two years. In 2027 another total eclipse will occur and in 2028 an annular eclipse will complete the trio.
This coincidence positions Espanha as a privileged destination for astronomical observation in the period. Instituições scientists plan educational activities in schools and observatories.
Safe Observation and Recommendations
Experts reinforce the need for adequate visual protection throughout the event. Óculos certificates with ISO 12312-2 filter are mandatory even in the partial phase.
Observatories and astronomical associations organize public observation points with equipped telescopes. The weather forecast will be monitored in previous months to identify the best locations.
Scientific infrastructure mobilized
Universities and research centers install temporary equipment along the route. The data collected will be used for studies on the upper atmosphere and solar corona.
The Instituto Geográfico Nacional coordinates the network of monitoring stations. Preliminary Resultados indicate favorable visibility conditions throughout most of the totality band.