Solar eclipse 2026

Palma prepares for the spectacular total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026

On August 12, 2026, Palma will find itself under one of nature’s grandest spectacles: a total solar eclipse. The moon will perfectly align with the sun, casting a brief shadow that will plunge parts of Spain—including Mallorca—into an otherworldly twilight.
This astronomical event has already sparked a wave of anticipation among scientists, astronomy enthusiasts, and tourists.

According to NationalEclipse, the eclipse’s path of totality will cross just south of Palma, placing the city in a good point to observe this phenomenon. Observers in Palma are poised to witness totality lasting approximately 1 minute and 36 seconds, starting around 20:31 CEST. As the eclipse approaches, the sun will dip low over the western horizon, enhancing the visual drama of the event.

This eclipse marks a momentous occasion for Spain—it’s the first total solar eclipse visible in the country since 1905. The event will traverse Spain from west to east at sunset, passing through cities such as A Coruña, Oviedo, León, Bilbao, Zaragoza, Valencia—and of course, Palma—before fading over the Mediterranean. In many of these locations, the duration of totality will reach up to 1 minute and 40 seconds, offering a rare and dramatic sky show.

Experts emphasize the importance of eye protection, using certified eclipse glasses to observe the partial phases, since only during totality it is safe to look directly at the Sun. The Astronomical and Astronautical Foundation of Mallorca has warned that a massive distribution of solar glasses will be essential, recommending at least 100,000 units to meet both local and tourist demand (source: Última Hora). It is also stressed that regular sunglasses, X-rays, or improvised filters are not safe, as they do not protect against solar radiation and may cause irreversible eye damage.

Moreover, not all areas of Mallorca will experience the eclipse in the same way. According to a visibility map prepared by the Mallorca Astronomy Foundation (source), there will be notable differences between the north and south coasts: in the north the totality band will be shorter and closer to the horizon, while in the south and southeast of the island the view will be more complete and prolonged. This makes Palma and its bay a pretty good spot for observing the eclipse. Especially good will be the areas at higher altitude, such as Bellver, and the areas with wide visibility, such as the seafront promenade or the West Breakwater.

In short, Palma’s skies will serve as the stage for a rare and awe-inspiring astronomical event in August 2026—a moment that combines science, tourism, and natural beauty, all wrapped in the final rays of a summer sunset.