2026 Total Solar Eclipse to Darken Spain and Balearic Islands on August 12

A total solar eclipse will occur on 12 August 2026, the first visible from continental Europe in almost three decades. The path of totality will cross northern Spain, the Balearic Islands, parts of Portugal, Iceland, Greenland and the Atlantic, while much of the rest of Europe, including Romania, Poland, the United Kingdom and Ireland, will see a partial eclipse.

Spanish authorities and regional governments are preparing extensive safety and logistical measures. The Balearic government will close the Tramuntana mountain roads and set up 26 official observation zones on Mallorca. Municipalities such as Vinaròs will distribute ISO‑certified eclipse glasses and organise controlled viewing points. The Junta of Castilla‑La Mancha is reinforcing telecom networks and coordinating civil‑protection plans for expected crowds. Health agencies across Spain warn that proper eclipse glasses (EN ISO 12312‑2) are mandatory to avoid permanent eye damage.

In Romania and Poland the eclipse will be visible only partially, with limited coverage near sunset. The United Kingdom and Ireland will experience the deepest partial eclipse in the region for 27 years. Astronomers also note that the same night will feature the Perseid meteor shower and a planetary alignment, adding further interest for observers.