A rare Solar Eclipse will briefly turn daylight into darkness across parts of Europe today. Northern Spain will offer some of the best views.
The event happens when the Moon moves directly between Earth and the Sun. It blocks sunlight and creates a narrow shadow across Earth.
During totality, daytime conditions can suddenly resemble twilight. Temperatures may fall, while shadows can appear unusual.
Some animals may also change their behaviour as daylight briefly disappears.
Solar Eclipse to Cross Several Countries
The eclipse will first become total over a remote area of northern Russia. Its path will then continue across Greenland and Iceland.
The path of totality will later reach Spain and the northeastern edge of Portugal.
In Spain, the shadow will move roughly from Oviedo towards Mallorca. Millions of people are expected to watch the event.
The total phase will occur shortly before sunset in Spain. It will last less than two minutes for many observers.
Burgos is expected to experience total darkness for one minute and 48 seconds.
Totality will last slightly longer in parts of Russia and Greenland. However, it will remain under two-and-a-half minutes.
Partial Eclipse Visible Across Wider Region
A much larger area will experience a partial Solar Eclipse. It will be visible across most of Europe and northwest Africa.
Parts of Canada and the northern United States will also see a partial eclipse.
The partial phase will last around one hour and 45 minutes in some locations.
A total eclipse occurs because of an unusual relationship between the Sun and Moon.
The Sun is about 400 times larger than the Moon. However, it is also roughly 400 times farther from Earth.
This allows the Moon to appear large enough to completely cover the Sun during totality.
The Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona, then becomes visible.
Scientists Prepare to Study the Sun
The Solar Eclipse will also provide scientists with an important research opportunity.
Researchers can study the Sun’s outer atmosphere during totality. Observations could improve understanding of solar winds and the Sun’s magnetic field.
Spain is also expecting a major increase in visitors for the event. Thousands of eclipse watchers have travelled to key viewing areas.
Authorities have prepared designated viewing locations and additional emergency resources.
Officials are also warning people about high temperatures and wildfire risks. Heavy traffic is expected near popular observation areas.
Observers should use certified eclipse glasses when looking at the Sun outside totality.
In other news read more about: Solar Eclipse 2026: UK to See Up to 96% Coverage on August 12
Another total eclipse is expected to cross southern Spain and northern Africa in August 2027. An annular eclipse will reach the Iberian Peninsula in 2028.
