5 Minute News

The Total Solar Eclipse of August 12 and Viewing Locations

August 9, 2026

A total solar eclipse will take place on Wednesday, August 12, visible from parts of Europe. The moon will completely cover the sun for a few minutes, providing an impressive sight. This event is significant as it marks the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Europe since 1999. The moon's shadow will mainly traverse northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, and reach the Iberian Peninsula, with Spain having the best view. The totality phase is expected to last around one minute and 44 seconds in Spain.