Total Solar Eclipse to Cast Partial Shadow Over Parts of the U.S.
A total solar eclipse is set to occur on August 12, 2026, providing a spectacular celestial event for skywatchers worldwide. While the path of totality will bring complete darkness to regions in northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain, and a small corner of Portugal, parts of the United States will experience a partial eclipse. According to NASA, a total solar eclipse happens when the moon completely blocks the sun's light by passing between the sun and Earth. In the U.S., areas from Alaska to North Carolina will witness between 3% and 37% coverage, with northern New England, particularly Maine, seeing up to 30% coverage. The event will briefly darken the sky, resembling dawn or dusk, and offers a unique opportunity for skywatchers to observe the moon taking a small bite out of the sun.