Solar Eclipse 2026: THIS Country to Witness Daytime Darkness After Nearly 100 Years, Know Where Eclipse Will Be Visible
The second and one of the most significant solar eclipses of 2026 will occur on August 12, 2026. Later in the same month, the second lunar eclipse of the year will take place on August 28, 2026, creating a rare "double-eclipse" phenomenon within a single month.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the August 12 solar eclipse is that parts of Spain will experience complete darkness during the daytime for the first time in nearly a century. The last comparable event was witnessed in 1905.
However, since the eclipse will not be visible in India, the Sutak period will not be observed in the country.
Key highlights of August 12, 2026 solar eclipse
- It will be the second and most important solar eclipse of 2026.
- The eclipse will create a rare astronomical spectacle, particularly in Spain, where the sky will turn dark during the day.
- Millions of people are expected to witness the celestial event across different parts of the world.
Regions where the eclipse will be visible
Areas witnessing a total solar eclipse
- Northern and central regions of Spain, including Madrid, Valencia and the Balearic Islands
- Western coastal areas of Iceland, including Reykjavik
- Greenland
- Northern Arctic regions of Russia
- Parts of the North Atlantic Ocean
Areas witnessing a partial solar eclipse
- Several countries in Western Europe
- Parts of Canada
- Regions of North Africa
Solar eclipse date and timing (IST)
Date: August 12, 2026
Beginning: Around 9:04 p.m. on August 12
Ending: Around 4:25 a.m. on August 13
Sutak period
According to Hindu traditions, the Sutak period begins 12 hours before the start of a solar eclipse and ends once the eclipse is over.
Since the eclipse will not be visible in India, the Sutak period will not be considered valid for Indian observers. ALSO READ: Holi, War & Lunar Eclipse Coincide — Is There a Deeper Connection?
Astrological significance of August 2026 eclipses
In Vedic astrology, the Sun represents energy, vitality, confidence and social status. Astrologers believe that even though the eclipse will not be visible in India, it may still influence people belonging to different zodiac signs.
August 2026 is considered particularly significant because it will feature two major celestial events:
August 12, 2026: Total solar eclipse
August 28, 2026: Lunar eclipse
Astrologers suggest that the combined influence of these two eclipses may affect various aspects of life, including career, relationships and finances.
August 2, 2027: The longest total solar eclipse of the century
According to NASA, another extraordinary astronomical event is expected to occur on August 2, 2027, when the Moon will move directly between the Earth and the Sun.
At its peak, the total eclipse is expected to last approximately 6 minutes and 23 seconds, making it one of the longest total solar eclipses of the century.
Several countries lying along the eclipse's path are expected to experience complete darkness during daylight hours.
