Introduction
Spain will experience an extraordinary astronomical phenomenon: three consecutive solar eclipses visible from our territory between 2026 and 2028.
The dates are:
• August 12, 2026 — Total solar eclipse
• August 2, 2027 — Total solar eclipse
• January 26, 2028 — Annular solar eclipse
A total eclipse visible from the same location on Earth can take up to 375 years to occur again, making this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people.
This series of eclipses will position Spain as one of the world’s leading destinations for astronomical observation during these years, attracting scientists, visitors, and enthusiasts from many countries.
Beyond their significant scientific and cultural value, these eclipses represent an opportunity for the development of astrotourism, science outreach, and economic growth in many regions, especially rural areas.
Safety: How to Observe an Eclipse Properly
Observing the Sun requires strict safety measures.
To view an eclipse, it is essential to use certified solar viewing glasses that comply with the ISO 12312-2 standard.
Improvised methods are NOT allowed, including:
• sunglasses
• smoked glass
• X-rays
• photographic negatives
• homemade filters
Looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can cause serious and irreversible eye damage.
How to Choose the Best Location to Observe the Eclipse
The experience of an eclipse largely depends on where it is observed.
Key recommendations include:
• choosing locations with a clear horizon
• avoiding large cities and areas with light pollution
• selecting places with clear skies and low light pollution
• planning travel and accommodations in advance
To know exactly how the eclipse will appear from any location, Spain’s National Geographic Institute (IGN) provides a very useful tool:
By entering the coordinates of a location, you can determine the exact time of the eclipse, its duration, the percentage of solar coverage, and the Sun’s altitude in the sky.
Planning and Logistics
A significant influx of national and international visitors is expected in areas within the eclipse path.
It is therefore recommended to:
• plan travel and accommodations well in advance
• prepare for possible location changes depending on weather conditions
• check access routes, parking, and observing conditions
• avoid last-minute travel
Many locations will host scientific, cultural, and tourism-related events linked to the eclipse, especially in regions with high-quality skies.
Scientific Coordination and Organization in Spain
The importance of these eclipses has led to the creation of a strong scientific and institutional coordination structure.
A Scientific Committee for the Trio of Eclipses in Spain has been established within the framework of the National Astronomy Commission to coordinate scientific, outreach, and observational initiatives.
Additionally, the Spanish Government has created an interministerial commission to coordinate planning and organization at a national level.
SDG 18: Sky Quality and Access to Starlight
The Starlight Foundation, together with BPW Spain and BPW Canary Islands, is also promoting the international initiative for the creation of SDG 18: Sky Quality and Access to Starlight, which aims to recognize the night sky as an essential heritage for science, culture, environmental sustainability, and human well-being.
The initiative has already received the support of thousands of companies and individuals from more than twenty countries and has fostered an international network of ambassadors committed to protecting the sky.
More information:
https://ods18.org
Training and Preparation: The Role of the Starlight Foundation
The Starlight Foundation has been working for several years on preparing for these eclipses, promoting initiatives related to training, outreach, and territorial development linked to the night sky and astrotourism.
Key initiatives include:
• Starlight Ambassadors programs
• specialized training in astrotourism and sky observation
• identification of the best observation sites within the eclipse path
• specialized training for tourism accommodations to prepare for visitors
• training for media professionals and science communicators
A Unique Phenomenon
Eclipses are among the most impressive natural spectacles that can be observed.
For a few minutes, the light changes, the temperature drops, and the landscape takes on a completely different atmosphere.
Spain now has an exceptional opportunity to experience this phenomenon, bring science closer to society, and promote a new culture of the sky and its protection.
Official Publications
All information and official publications related to the solar eclipses in Spain in 2026, 2027, and 2028:
• Trio de Eclipses – Official website of the initiative
•Eclipse visibility locator in Spain – Official IGN website
•Eclipse Chasers – Official Spanish Tourism Portal