What Is Total Solar Eclipse? NASA Explains Rare August 2026 Sky Event

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striking, breathtaking sky phenomenon is set to take place on August 12, 2026. The sun will slowly sink below the horizon, and millions of people across Europe and Africa can witness a solar eclipse during the sunset. It will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the Moon eventually covering the Sun. As per NASA, a total solar eclipse will travel across parts of Iceland, Greenland, northern Russia, the Atlantic Ocean, Spain and a small section of Portugal.

What is A Total Solar Eclipse?

According to NASA, a total solar eclipse takes place when the moon moves directly between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the Sun’s bright surface for a brief period. People who happen to be standing in the centre of the Moon’s shadow on Earth will experience total darkness during the peak eclipse, known as totality.Notably, the timing of this eclipse will be different for many people depending on the location. In northwestern Russia, totality will occur around midday. People in Iceland and Greenland will watch the event during the late afternoon or early evening. In Spain and northwestern Portugal, the Sun will be fully eclipsed shortly before sunset. For many locations, the totality will last less than two minutes. However, people near the centre of the eclipse in Greenland, parts of Russia and areas of the North Atlantic will be able to witness the phenomenon for a longer period of darkness, though still under two and a half minutes, explained NASA.

Partial Eclipse Also Visible

The space agency has highlighted that the eclipse will not be limited to regions experiencing totality. A partial solar eclipse could be seen across much of the Northern Hemisphere. This includes parts of the northern United States, most of Canada, large areas of Europe and northwestern Africa. During a partial eclipse, the Moon covers only a portion of the Sun, making it seem as if a piece has been taken out of the solar disc.It is noteworthy that it is dangerous to look directly at the Sun except during the brief moments of totality. During all partial phases, viewers must use certified solar viewing glasses and approved solar filters.