On August 12, 2026, the moon will completely cover the sun as seen from several Spanish cities, Iceland and Greenland, for about two minutes. This event will mark the first time since 1912 that the Iberian Peninsula has observed a total solar eclipse. Astronomers and amateurs will be able to briefly observe the solar corona, the tenuous outer atmosphere that is only visible during the phase of totality.

You will find a useful viewer of the path of totality and other eclipse statistics [here], and more general information [here].

Located in the north-west coast of the Iberian peninsula and within the path of totality, A Coruña is an ideal location to witness this historical event. Its westerly location means that at the time of the eclipse (8:30pm) the sun will be higher above the horizon than anywhere else in Spain. Moreover, the city enjoys a clear horizon with unimpeded views of the eclipse over the ocean. The following photos were taken from the city’s Roman lighthouse (the Tower of Hercules) at 8:30pm on August 12 2024.

The chances of good observing conditions are also high, with A Coruña averaging few rainy days and low cloud cover in the month of August [here]. There are many great viewing spots within walking distance of the city center. However, participants and their guests will also have the option to reserve seats in contigency buses, enabling relocation in case weather conditions are not favorable in A Coruña. If conditiones do turn out to be good, we will use the buses for a morning excursion to Santiago de Compostela.