in-cyprus 1 January 2026
For the first time in over 25 years, a total solar eclipse will be visible from mainland Europe on August 12, 2026. This celestial event marks a historic return; the last such phenomenon occurred in August 1999.
The path of totality will begin in northern Russia, cross the Arctic Ocean and eastern Greenland, reach its maximum duration off the coast of Iceland, and finally sweep across northern Spain. In Spanish cities, the Moon will completely obscure the Sun for up to 1 minute and 50 seconds shortly before sunset.
While visible as a partial eclipse across North America, Western Africa, and most of Europe, the view from Greece will be negligible. Only northwestern regions—including Corfu, Igoumenitsa, Konitsa, Kastoria, and Florina—will experience a partial eclipse, but the percentage of coverage will be so small that it will be practically unobservable.
Astronomical Highlights of 2026
Solar Eclipses:
February 17: An annular solar eclipse (the “ring of fire”) will be visible exclusively from Antarctica.
August 12: The total solar eclipse in Spain and Iceland. This is Spain’s first total eclipse since 1905 and Iceland’s first since 1954.
Lunar Eclipses:
March 3: A total lunar eclipse, known as a “Blood Moon,” will cast an eerie orange glow as Earth’s shadow completely covers the Moon. It will be visible across the Americas, the Pacific, and parts of Asia and Oceania.
August 27-28: A partial lunar eclipse will follow the solar event, visible primarily from Africa, Europe, and Asia.
The Aurora Borealis: Although the “solar maximum” (the peak of the Sun’s activity cycle) concluded in 2025, solar activity remains high in 2026. This will continue to trigger impressive Northern Lights displays, particularly in northern latitudes.
Moon and Meteor Events
Supermoons: 2026 will feature three Supermoons on January 3, November 24, and December 23. During these periods, the Moon appears larger and brighter as it reaches its closest point to Earth (perigee).
Blue Moon: May 2026 will host a “Blue Moon,” with full moons occurring on both May 1 and May 31.
The Perseid Meteor Shower: The peak of the Perseids on August 12 and 13 will benefit from ideal viewing conditions. The dates coincide with a New Moon, meaning the absence of moonlight will allow observers to see the “shooting stars” with maximum clarity.
(information from protothema.gr)
