FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (FAQ), ABOUT THE TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE OF AUGUST 12, 2026
THE ASTRONOMICAL PHENOMENON OF THE ECLIPSE
– What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse is a phenomenon that occurs somewhere on Earth approximately every 18 months, when the Moon aligns between the Sun and the Earth, blocking sunlight.
– What is its appeal to the general public?
It is one of the most exciting astronomical phenomena due to the sudden darkness that occurs at the moment of totality, the view of the solar corona, and the visibility of bright planets and stars.
Total eclipses motivate «eclipse chasers» to travel to the most distant points on the planet.
– What is its relevance for science?
– In ancient times, because the apparent angular size of the Moon and Sun is similar, it was useful for estimating the distance and size of the Sun.
– In more modern times, it has been useful for studying the solar corona, cosmic rays, and supporting Einstein’s theory of General Relativity, as well as other physical phenomena.
Since the Moon is currently moving away from the Earth at 3.8 cm/year, in a few hundred million years there will no longer be total solar eclipses
ENJOYING THE TOTAL ECLIPSE
– What will we see during the total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026?
We will observe three different phases of the eclipse. Consult the precise times for each location in the «Desde los municipios» tab of the National Geographic Institute’s website:
https://eclipses.ign.es/eclipse-total-sol-de-12-de-agosto-2026.html
– What are the phases we will see?
An initial phase, a totality phase, and a closing phase.
– What will we see in the initial phase?
Initial partial eclipse phase: The Sun will begin to disappear behind the Moon starting at approximately 7:30 PM, and its illuminated surface will gradually decrease, but we will barely notice any change in brightness or other aspects. This phase lasts about 50 minutes.
– How can we enjoy the initial phase?
Unless you’re an experienced eclipse astronomer, the best way to enjoy this phase is to properly use certified eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2:2015 standard) or, at most, binoculars with an ND5 filter, always positioned in front of the objective lens.
– What will we see during totality?
Total eclipse phase: Between 8:27 PM and 8:31 PM local time (depending on your location), the light will quickly fade and the total eclipse will occur.
We will then be able to observe the Sun directly, seeing the solar corona, stars, and planets. We might suddenly feel a cool breeze, see animals disoriented, and people expressing emotions.
This phase lasts between a few seconds and a little over a minute. Consult the precise duration of totality for each location on the National Geographic Institute’s website (tab: Desde los municipios):
https://eclipses.ign.es/eclipse-total-sol-de-12-de-agosto-2026.html
– How can we enjoy the totality phase?
During the total eclipse, you can look at the Sun without glasses or any instruments, because the magical moment of totality lasts only a few seconds, and if you spend time adjusting equipment, you’ll miss all the excitement of the total phase. Observe the stars, the sudden change in brightness and temperature, the wind, human emotions, and animal behavior.
– What will we see in the final phase?
Final partial eclipse phase: The end of totality is characterized by a sudden return of light, with the Sun beginning to rise after the Moon. This final phase lasts approximately one hour. In some areas, the Sun will set before this phase ends.
– How can we enjoy the final phase?
During the final phase, with minimal sunlight, it is necessary to use eclipse glasses certified to ISO 12312-2:2015, or binoculars with an ND5 filter.
EYE PROTECTION
– How to protect yourself while viewing the eclipse and avoid eye damage?
Use certified eclipse glasses that comply with the ISO 12312-2:2015 standard. If this full number is not printed on the glasses, they are not suitable.
– How long can you look at the Sun continuously with eclipse glasses?
Even with certified eclipse glasses, you cannot look at the Sun continuously. You must observe in periods of about half a minute followed by longer breaks (about 2 or 3 minutes).
– How to put on and take off the glasses?
The best way is to position yourself facing the Sun, but looking down at the ground. Put on the eclipse glasses at this point.
Then, with the glasses on, you can look at the Sun. To take them off, look down at the ground and then remove the eclipse glasses. Never look at the Sun before putting on the glasses.
What other safe ways are there to view the eclipse?
The most common way is by projection. There are different methods for this, such as making a pinhole camera with a cardboard box. You can also buy a projection telescope. During the few seconds that the total eclipse lasts, you can look at it without eclipse glasses.
– Can children view the eclipse with any protective equipment?
It’s safest for them to view the partial eclipse phase by projection, never directly.
If they do view it directly, it must be with certified eclipse glasses and with the essential supervision of an adult to ensure their correct placement, application, and removal, as well as the observation time and rest periods.
– Can I view the eclipse with sunglasses?
No, it’s very dangerous. Sunglasses do not block harmful radiation, primarily ultraviolet (UV) rays. This radiation severely and permanently damages the retina, potentially causing permanent vision loss.
– Can I view the eclipse through an X-ray film?
No, it’s very dangerous. X-ray films do not block harmful radiation, primarily ultraviolet, and permanently damage the retina, potentially causing permanent vision loss.
– Can I view the eclipse with welding goggles?
No, it’s recommended to purchase eclipse glasses, which are very affordable.
– Are there any other ways to view the partial phases of the eclipse, besides with eclipse glasses or binoculars with ND5 protection, or by projection?
No, we do not recommend using other methods, and above all, avoid homemade contraptions, as they can cause permanent vision loss.
– How do I know if eclipse glasses are safe?
Check that the ISO 12312-2:2015 standard is printed on them, that the filters are not detached from the frame, and that they have no scratches or holes, no matter how small.
– Where can I buy certified eclipse glasses?
At opticians, astronomy stores, and astronomical associations. It is not recommended to buy glasses online unless they are from reliable and reputable retailers that sell glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2:2015 standard.
– How much do certified eclipse glasses cost?
Usually, less than €5.
– What are eclipse glasses like?
They are glasses with a cardboard frame that incorporate black polymer or Mylar filters that block 99.999% of total radiation, including ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation.
– How does the sun look with eclipse glasses?
It depends on the material the glasses are made of. If they are made of black polymer, they appear yellow/orange. If they have a Mylar filter, they will appear gray, like the moon.
– Can I look directly at the sun at any point during the eclipse?
You can only look directly at the sun for the few seconds that totality lasts, and at the slightest ray of light that appears, avoid looking at it without proper protection.
Any small portion of the sun must be viewed with certified eclipse glasses or by projection.
PERSONAL PROTECTION
– What should I bring to the eclipse?
Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, plenty of water and food, a hat or visor, an umbrella, a folding chair, and some warm clothing (the temperature drops during totality).
Also, in the car, make sure the gas tank is full and the batteries of mobile phones and other devices are charged, and of course, bring certified eclipse glasses that meet ISO 12312-2:2015 standards.
PROTECTION OF OBSERVATION EQUIPMENT
– Do I need to protect my binoculars?
Yes, you must always place an ND5 filter in front of the objective lens.
– Can I view the eclipse with a regular telescope?
To view it with a telescope, you must remove the finder scope and place an ND5 filter in front of the lens.
– Can I look through binoculars while wearing eclipse glasses?
No. Observation equipment such as binoculars, cameras, or telescopes must have their own filters, which are different from those used with eclipse glasses.
– Can I photograph the eclipse with my camera?
Yes, you can photograph the solar eclipse with a camera, whether it’s a DSLR, mirrorless, or a mobile phone, but always using a certified solar filter that meets the ISO 12312-2:2015 standard over the lens to protect the camera sensor and your eyes. Don’t forget to remove the filter during totality, as this can happen if you forget, because you can’t retake the photo if it didn’t turn out well.
LOCATION AND TIME
– What time can I see the eclipse?
The time varies slightly depending on the location, but the partial eclipse will begin at sunset, around 7:30 p.m. local time (the time on our clocks in Spain).
The total eclipse will occur around 8:29 p.m. and will last a little over a minute at most.
To see the exact time in a specific municipality, consult the National Geographic Institute’s website under the «Desde los municipios» tab at the following link:
https://eclipses.ign.es/eclipse-total-sol-de-12-de-agosto-2026.html
– Where should I look to see the total eclipse?
Look west and find a clear horizon, without buildings, trees, or other obstacles, because the eclipse will occur at a low altitude, between 11° and 12° in Galicia and 2° and 3° in the Balearic Islands.
– What is the best place to see the eclipse?
The path of totality stretches from northern Galicia across the Iberian Peninsula to the Balearic Islands, spanning almost 300 km in width. The closer the observer is to the center of this path, the longer totality will last.
– How long does the total phase of the eclipse last?
Each total eclipse is unique and different. The eclipse of August 12, 2026, will last between one minute and 50 seconds in towns located in the center of the path of totality, and a few seconds at the edges of the path.
LOGISTICS
– How early should I arrive at the observation site?
Traffic will be similar to a busy holiday weekend, so traffic jams are expected, and road closures are possible.
Therefore, it’s advisable to leave more than 8 hours in advance and find a shady spot with food and restroom facilities while waiting to access the observation areas.
– How far in advance should I book accommodation for the eclipse date?
Since many hotel bookings have already been made for these dates, it’s highly recommended to book accommodation before the end of March to ensure you can stay near the observation site.
MISCELLANEOUS
– Is it possible to take advantage of the opportunity to see other astronomical phenomena?
Yes, it coincides with the peak of a meteor shower (the Perseids) on the same night.
– How will the sun appear during the partial eclipse in the rest of Spain?
In peninsular Spain where totality will not occur, the sun will gradually disappear behind the moon, until at least 92% of its surface is obscured.
– Is it true that on April 28th the sun will be in the same position as on August 12th?
Yes, that’s why April 28th is a good day to check the suitability of the chosen location and do a general test of the equipment.
April 28th is 52 days before the solstice, and August 12th is 52 days after the solstice. The solstice occurs around June 21st (the longest day of the year).
– Is it possible to find information on how to organize towns and rural areas for the August 12th eclipse?
Yes, the Madrid Astronomical Association has published a video on social media featuring the experiences of some of its members in various countries where the eclipse has occurred.
This video offers nine recommendations to help municipalities manage the event.
DISCLAIMER
The Madrid Astronomical Association (AAM) will provide interested individuals and organizations with scientific and educational information and recommendations about the total solar eclipse of August 12th, based on available astronomical knowledge and the accumulated experience of its members observing solar eclipses in different countries.
This information is for guidance purposes only and is not legally binding.
The AAM assumes no responsibility for any active or passive decisions of an organizational, logistical, security, or any other nature made by individuals, institutions, or organizations participating in the eclipse, the planning and execution of which is their sole responsibility.
