A total solar eclipse will darken parts of Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain on August 12, marking the first such event visible from central and western mainland Europe since August 11, 1999. The eclipse’s path of totality will stretch approximately 5,157 miles, beginning near the Arctic coastline around 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time and ending near the Balearic Islands by 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time, according to NASA and independent astronomical tracking.
The event will last a maximum of 2 minutes and 18 seconds for observers positioned directly within the narrow path of totality. During this brief period, the Moon will completely cover the Sun, plunging the landscape into temporary darkness and revealing the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona. Outside this path, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across a broader region, including parts of Europe, Africa, and North America.
Where and when to watch
The total eclipse will be visible in western Iceland, northern Spain, and a small portion of northeastern Portugal, as well as the Balearic Islands. In Reykjavik, Iceland, totality is expected to begin at 5:48 p.m. local time and last about one minute. In León, Spain, totality will commence around 8:28 p.m. local time and extend for roughly two minutes.
A partial eclipse will be observable in major European cities, including Madrid, London, and Paris, where up to 90% of the Sun will be obscured. In the United States, the best visibility will be in Fairbanks, Alaska, where the eclipse will reach 37% totality. Other U.S. cities, such as Boston (16%), New York City (9%), Toronto (8%), and Philadelphia (7%), will experience minimal coverage. NASA will provide a livestream of the event for viewers outside the path of totality.
Scientific and public significance
The eclipse is notable for its rarity in Europe, where the last total solar eclipse occurred 27 years ago. The 1999 eclipse drew millions of observers and became one of the most-watched astronomical events in modern history. This year’s eclipse presents an opportunity for scientists to study the corona, which is typically obscured by the Sun’s brightness, as well as for the public to witness a rare celestial phenomenon.
Authorities in affected regions have prepared for an influx of skywatchers, particularly in remote areas like northern Greenland, where infrastructure may be limited. The event also serves as a test of emergency response capabilities in regions facing extreme summer conditions, including high temperatures and potential wildfire risks.
Safety and viewing guidelines
NASA and astronomical organizations emphasize the importance of safe viewing practices during the eclipse. Directly staring at the Sun without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage. Recommended methods for safe observation include:
- Solar viewing glasses certified to meet international safety standards.
- Pinhole projectors or other indirect viewing techniques.
- Telescopes or binoculars equipped with solar filters.
The eclipse’s timing and path have been tracked by multiple astronomical organizations, including NASA, which has released detailed interactive maps and timeline tools to help the public determine visibility in their locations. The event will conclude as the Moon’s shadow moves eastward, leaving behind a brief but unforgettable display of cosmic alignment.