On August 12, a total solar eclipse will track across parts of Europe and the Arctic, offering a rare celestial event that will not return to Iceland until 2196. According to available data, the moon’s shadow will create a path of total darkness lasting up to 2 minutes and 18 seconds, with Reykjavik experiencing slightly more than one minute of totality as the moon obscures the sun.
Where to view the August 12 solar eclipse
The eclipse begins around midday in Russia, moving across the Arctic Ocean toward Greenland before reaching Iceland and ending in parts of Southern Europe. The shadow travels at speeds exceeding 3,400 kilometers per hour. While the total eclipse path is narrow, a partial eclipse will be visible across roughly 25 percent of the globe, according to astronomical calculations.
In Iceland, the event is particularly significant because it is the first total solar eclipse there since 1954. Observers in Reykjavik will see the eclipse at approximately 17:48 local time. The shadow then moves toward Northern Spain and the Baleares, where the event will conclude near sunset shortly before 20:30 local time. Because the sun will be low on the horizon in Southwest Europe, viewing margins will be thin for those observers.
A solar eclipse can only occur when the sun, moon, and earth align perfectly. While there are a maximum of seven eclipses annually, total solar eclipses remain rare for specific populated regions due to the narrow path of the moon’s shadow.
Why scientific observation of the corona is a priority
Total eclipses provide a unique opportunity for researchers to study the solar corona, the sun’s outer atmosphere. Outside of totality, this region is difficult to observe directly. According to New Scientist, the brief period of darkness allows scientists to gather data on the corona’s temperature, structure, and dynamic behavior. This makes total eclipses significantly more valuable for solar research than partial eclipses, where the sun remains partially visible.
How to view the eclipse safely
Safety is the primary concern for all observers, regardless of whether they are in the path of totality. Looking directly at the sun without protection can cause permanent eye damage. New Scientist emphasizes that standard sunglasses are insufficient; viewers must use certified eclipse glasses or specialized solar filters that block harmful radiation.
For those without specialized equipment, the pinhole projection method is a safe alternative. By allowing sunlight to pass through a small hole—or even through the gaps between tree leaves—observers can project an image of the eclipsed sun onto a piece of paper or the ground. This allows for safe observation of the “bite” taken out of the sun as the moon passes by.
Even if the sun is only partially covered, the risk of eye damage remains high. Because the reduction in light may be subtle, people are often tempted to look at the sun without protection. Always keep your eclipse glasses on until the event is entirely over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this eclipse considered rare for Iceland?
The path of totality only crosses Iceland due to the specific geometry of the moon’s orbit and the earth’s rotation. It has not crossed the island since 1954 and is not projected to return until 2196.
What is the difference between total and partial eclipses?
A total eclipse occurs when the moon completely covers the sun, visible only within the narrow “path of totality.” A partial eclipse occurs when the moon only covers a portion of the sun, which is visible across a much wider geographic area.
Can I use my regular sunglasses to watch the eclipse?
No. Regular sunglasses do not provide adequate protection against the sun’s radiation. You must use eclipse glasses or approved solar filters.
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