Watch the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse
A rare astronomical spectacle takes place today, August 12, 2026, with a total solar eclipse visible in regions of Greenland, Iceland, Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. Millions of people across much of Europe and parts of North America will have the chance to partially observe the phenomenon. The American Space Agency (NASA) has prepared special coverage, including a live broadcast so that enthusiasts around the world can follow the event and its scientific aspects.
Where and when to observe the phenomenon in the sky
The eclipse’s point of totality begins in Iceland at 2:45 pm Brasilia time (5:45 pm UTC), marking the beginning of daytime darkness in the island country. Then, the Moon’s shadow moves towards Spain, where the full phase will be visible from 3:28 pm Brasília time (6:28 pm UTC). The trajectory of the total eclipse, although restricted to these geographic areas, guarantees a unique and breathtaking spectacle for observers located on the designated paths.
Why a total solar eclipse is so special
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon aligns exactly between the Sun and the Earth, completely covering the solar disk and projecting a band of darkness onto the Earth’s surface. This precise alignment makes it possible to observe the solar corona, the outermost layer of the Sun’s atmosphere, which is usually invisible due to the star’s intense brightness. This is a unique opportunity for scientists and enthusiasts, as it allows the study of solar phenomena directly, a feat that terrestrial equipment is generally unable to perform under normal conditions, making the event a short-term natural laboratory.
More on this story: Watch the August 12 total solar eclipse via NASA broadcast
NASA Eclipse Research and Discoveries
The American Space Agency (NASA) capitalizes on these celestial events to expand understanding of our system’s central star and its influence on Earth. During the phase of totality, scientists employ a range of cutting-edge instruments, such as spectrographs and polarimeters, to record crucial data about the structure, temperature, composition and movements of the solar corona. The results of these analyzes are vital for deciphering the origin of phenomena such as massive solar flares and geomagnetic storms, which have the potential to disrupt satellite navigation systems, communications networks and even electrical power infrastructures on our planet. Today’s eclipse represents yet another valuable opportunity to advance these investigations.
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How to follow the eclipse live online
For everyone not within the narrow band of totality, technological innovation provides an accessible way to witness the phenomenon live. NASA, reiterating its commitment to education and scientific dissemination, will organize a multiplatform broadcast, displaying images captured from different angles and locations along the eclipse’s path. This coverage will not be limited to showing the images, but will also include expert commentary, in-depth explanations of the physics of eclipses, and the latest discoveries resulting from the agency’s missions. The experience aims to be both informative and immersive, and the total duration of this eclipse is estimated at just over two minutes in certain locations, offering precious time for remote observation.
Safety measures for those observing the eclipse
Despite the magnitude of the event, direct observation of the Sun without the appropriate protective equipment can result in irreversible eye damage. Therefore, whether in the partial phase of the eclipse or in regions where only partial visibility is expected, it is absolutely essential to use specific eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 certification, appropriate solar filters for telescopes and binoculars, or the use of camera obscuras and other indirect projection methods. Under no circumstances should you attempt to observe the Sun directly with unprotected optical instruments or with the naked eye. The top priority must always be vision safety to fully enjoy this great natural phenomenon.
