A rare total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of the Northern Hemisphere on Wednesday, August 12, creating a dramatic celestial spectacle as the Moon moves directly between the Earth and the Sun and temporarily blocks the Sun’s disk from view. According to NASA, the path of totality will extend across Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean, northern Russia, Spain and a small part of Portugal, while a much broader area—including parts of the northern United States, most of Canada, large parts of Europe and northwestern Africa—will experience a partial solar eclipse. The eclipse is scheduled to begin globally at about 15:34 UTC, although the exact timing of the partial and total phases will vary significantly depending on the observer’s location. For people positioned within the narrow path of totality, the Moon will completely cover the Sun for a short period, allowing the solar corona—the Sun’s extremely hot outer atmosphere—to become visible, weather conditions permitting. Outside that path, observers will see only part of the Sun covered by the Moon. Scientists and astronomy enthusiasts are expected to closely follow the event, with NASA providing live coverage featuring telescope observations, expert commentary and footage from a high-altitude research aircraft designed to observe the eclipse from above the clouds. For those unable to travel to the path of totality, online livestreams will provide an opportunity to follow the event remotely, including through NASA’s live platforms. However, viewing safety remains critical: anyone watching the partial phases directly must use certified solar-viewing or eclipse glasses, as ordinary sunglasses do not provide adequate protection against potentially serious eye damage. NASA advises that eclipse glasses should remain on throughout the partial phases and may be removed only during the brief period of complete totality, when the Moon fully covers the Sun. The August 12 eclipse is expected to draw large crowds to locations along the path of totality, particularly in Europe and the North Atlantic region, as millions of skywatchers seek clear views of one of nature’s most striking astronomical events. For observers outside the path of totality, the eclipse will still offer a significant astronomical spectacle, but the extent of the Sun’s coverage will depend entirely on their geographic location. As anticipation builds around the event, astronomers are urging viewers to plan ahead, check local weather conditions and use appropriate solar protection, while broadcasters and space agencies prepare to bring the rare phenomenon to audiences around the world.
Total solar eclipse of 2026: Where, when and how to see it on Wednesday
