The Solar Eclipse of August 12, 2026 in Spain

The Solar Eclipse of August 12, 2026 in Spain: What Will We See from La Palma?

August 12, 2026 will be a date to remember in Spanish astronomy. Across the northern peninsula and the Balearic Islands, the event will be a total solar eclipse, while from the Canary Islands — and of course, from La Palma — we won’t reach totality.
However, it will still be a remarkable partial eclipse, offering an impressive celestial show.

That same night will also coincide with the Perseid meteor shower’s peak, making it not just an eclipse to remember, but an entire night of cosmic wonder.

General Data about the Eclipse

• Date: August 12, 2026
• Main Type: Total solar eclipse — the path of totality will cross northern Spain, the Balearic Islands, and other parts of Europe.
• Visibility in the Canary Islands (and La Palma): Partial — totality will not be visible from the archipelago.
• Estimated Partial Magnitude (Gran Canaria reference): ~0.75, meaning around 75% of the Sun’s apparent diameter will be covered.
• Maximum Moment (mainland Spain): Around 20:26–20:30 local time (CEST).
• Sun’s Altitude: Low above the western horizon at maximum, so a clear line of sight to the west will be essential.

What Will Be Visible from La Palma

Although the exact value for La Palma may vary slightly as models are refined, projections already suggest the following:

• We will see a partial eclipse: a large portion of the Sun will be covered by the Moon.
• Depending on the local magnitude, between 60% and 80% of the solar disk could be obscured — a strong partial eclipse, based on nearby island data and trajectory models. More info here.
• As the partial phase progresses, daylight will dim slightly — like an “extra sunset.” Shadows will sharpen, and the landscape will be bathed in a unique, soft light typical of eclipses.
• At the moment of maximum coverage, the Sun will appear deeply “bitten” before the Moon slowly reveals it again.

Why It Matters for Astrotourism in La Palma

Even though La Palma won’t experience totality, the contrast and spectacle of a partially covered Sun are breathtaking and unforgettable.

And since it coincides with the peak of the Perseids meteor shower, that night will offer a double astronomical event — a perfect opportunity for photographers, sky lovers, and travelers.

In June 2026 we’ll announce our special Solar Eclipse event — stay tuned, as spots will sell out fast! to be announced at Astroevents