A total solar eclipse is an extraordinary natural phenomenon and one of those events that not everyone is lucky enough to witness.
Its exceptional nature is clearly shown by the following fact: the last such eclipse visible from mainland Spain took place on 30 August 1905.
According to the European Space Agency, in any given city on Earth, a total solar eclipse occurs on average only once every few centuries. At the same time, the agency highlights Spain’s exceptional position, noting that on 12 August 2026 the country will become one of Europe’s main observation points for this rare phenomenon.
When the eclipse will take place
The next total solar eclipse is scheduled for Wednesday, 12 August 2026.
Although the exact time will depend on the observation location, the main evening phases of the eclipse in Spain will fall roughly between 19:30 and 21:22.
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Sun and Earth, casting its shadow on our planet.
Because the Moon is much smaller than Earth, perspective plays a decisive role in whether this phenomenon can be observed.
Where the total phase will be visible in Spain
The Moon’s shadow covers only a band between 100 and 270 kilometres wide on the Earth’s surface – this is the zone where the eclipse can be observed in its entirety.
This time, Spain is in a privileged position, as a significant part of its territory will fall within the total or partial eclipse zone.
In particular, the path of totality will cross the following autonomous communities diagonally: Aragon, Asturias, the Balearic Islands, Cantabria, Castile-La Mancha, Castile and León, Catalonia, Madrid, Galicia, La Rioja, Navarre, the Valencian Community and the Basque Country.
To find the exact area where the phenomenon can be seen at its best, the National Geographic Institute has created a dedicated website with an interactive map showing the areas and times of eclipse visibility.
The website also includes a function that allows users to enter a specific postcode and find out whether the eclipse will be visible there and at what time.
How long the eclipse will last
The duration of the solar eclipse will also depend on the observer’s location.
The whole process lasts several hours – from the moment the Moon begins to cover the Sun until it completely leaves the solar disc.
However, the culmination phase, when the Moon fully covers the Sun, is much shorter.
In Spain, this phase is expected to last just over one minute, while in Iceland, according to calculations, it will last 2 minutes and 18 seconds.
How the eclipse will be seen in Torrevieja
In Torrevieja, the eclipse will begin at 19:40, reach its maximum phase at around 20:35 and end at sunset, which is expected at 20:59.
During this phenomenon, a partial eclipse covering about 98.58% of the solar disc will be visible.
Although totality will not occur in Torrevieja, it will still be one of the most impressive astronomical events of recent decades for residents and visitors of the south of the province of Alicante.
Where it is best to watch the eclipse
Weather conditions will play a key role in enjoying the eclipse.
If the day is cloudy, the quality of observation may be significantly reduced.
It is also important to watch from a place where nothing obstructs the sky – for example, from a tall building, mountain, beach, promenade or another open space with a clear view of the western horizon.
At the peak of the eclipse, the Sun will be very low above the horizon, so an unobstructed view to the west will be especially important.
How to observe the solar eclipse safely
It is important to remember that solar eclipse observation requires glasses certified under the ISO 12312-2 standard and bearing the CE mark.
If welding glasses are used, their protection level must be at least 14.
Ordinary sunglasses do not provide the necessary protection from solar radiation and must not be used for looking directly at the Sun during the eclipse.
All other homemade methods – X-ray films, CD or DVD discs, photo negatives, tinted glass and filters – are potentially dangerous for eyesight.
The human eye acts like a magnifying glass for solar rays, which can cause irreversible burns to the retina.
Even when using a telescope or camera, certified professional solar filters must be placed on the front of the device.
The safest method for children
The safest way to observe the eclipse is indirect observation, which is especially recommended for children.
For this, two sheets of white cardboard are needed.
A small hole is cut in the first sheet and pointed towards the Sun so that light passes through it.
This projects an image onto the second sheet of cardboard, where it is possible to see the silhouette of the Sun and how it is being eclipsed by the Moon.