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Total Solar Eclipse

Mallorca · August 12, 2026

The most complete guide to experience the astronomical event of the century from the island.

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The event: why Mallorca is unique

On August 12, 2026, Mallorca will be one of the most extraordinary locations on Earth to witness a total solar eclipse. It will be the first total solar eclipse visible from Spain since 1905.

What makes Mallorca truly special is the combination of three factors:

  1. The island is very close to the central path, maximizing the duration.
  2. The eclipse occurs at sunset, with the Sun just 2.5° above the western horizon.
  3. The Mediterranean as backdrop: the solar corona visible at water level.

Verified astronomical data

Times in local CEST (UTC+2). Data for Palma de Mallorca.

PhaseTimeDetail
Partial eclipse begins19:37:58Sun is at 12° elevation
Totality begins20:31:00Sudden darkness
Maximum eclipse20:31:48Moon covers 103.1% of the Sun
Totality ends20:32:361 min 36 sec of totality
Partial eclipse ends~20:46:00Sunset
Sun position at maximum: azimuth 287°, WNW direction. Elevation: 2° — unobstructed western horizon essential.

Where to watch: the whole island, but not equally

All of Mallorca is inside the path of totality (290 km wide, the island is 100 km across). But with the Sun at just 2° elevation, the real challenge is having a completely clear western horizon. Any building, hill or tree can block the view.

Ideal: West coast with open sea horizon

Very good: Northern coast and Formentor

Good: Palma — spots with clear westward view

Challenging: Inland and behind the Serra

Areas like Inca, Manacor or Artà are inside the totality path, but the Serra de Tramuntana may block the Sun at just 2° elevation. Find an elevated spot with a clear western horizon.

Sources: NASA Eclipse Map · IGN Spain

Practical guide

Eye safety — mandatory

Critical logistics

Weather

August in Mallorca: ~75% chance of clear skies. West coast most favorable.

Bonus: The Perseids

The eclipse date coincides with the Perseid meteor shower peak (Aug 12-13). After the eclipse you can watch shooting stars over the Mediterranean. A double astronomical night.

Scientific context

The FIAAM has launched Eclipses Balears 2026–2028 with workshops and observations. The eclipse occurs after a solar activity peak (cycle 25), allowing scientists to observe the solar corona and coronal mass ejections.

Frequently asked questions

Will the total eclipse be visible across all of Mallorca?

Yes. The entire island is inside the path of totality according to NASA and IGN. The real challenge is that the Sun will be at just 2° above the horizon: you need a spot with a completely clear westward view, no buildings or mountains.

How long does totality last?

Approximately 1 minute and 36 seconds. Maximum at 20:31:48.

Can I watch without glasses?

Only during the exact 96 seconds of totality (20:31–20:32). Before and after, ISO 12312-2 glasses are mandatory.

Best spots without a boat?

Banyalbufar, Estellencs, Port de Sóller and Palma's Paseo Marítimo.

Are there organized events?

Yes. The FIAAM organizes workshops. Several hotels and restaurants have special programs. Charter boats have their own events.

Curated experiences

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Discover the best eclipse experiences

Private boats, premium hotels, specialized guides — a personal selection of how to live this unique moment.

Register free to see the experiences

Do you offer an eclipse experience?

If you have a boat, hotel, restaurant or service offering something special for August 12, we'd love to hear from you.

Sources and references