12 August 2026 · Total Solar Eclipse
Your entire eclipse day, step by step: preparation, checklist, timeline and an interactive map to set your observation point.
A total eclipse happens when the Moon passes exactly in front of the Sun, briefly turning day into night. The 12 August 2026 eclipse is the first total eclipse visible from continental Europe since 1999 — the totality band crosses Iceland and northern Spain. The rest of Europe will see a deep partial eclipse at sunset.
Compte à rebours jusqu'à l'éclipse
A successful eclipse takes preparation. Here's a clear schedule so you don't forget anything — from 3 months before until the end of the observation.
A template schedule for 12 August 2026. Adapt it to your location and the exact eclipse time for your viewing spot.
Check the local weather one last time.
Bags, eclipse glasses and gear loaded.
Final scouting, find the best angle.
Tripod, camera, chairs, picnic.
First contact — glasses required.
A few unforgettable minutes — watch the moment.
Gradual return to normal light.
Wait for traffic to subside.
NEVER look at the Sun directly — even partially eclipsed — without certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses. Sunglasses are not enough, even stacked. During totality (inside the totality band only) you may remove the glasses for the seconds of darkness, then put them back on immediately.
Anticipate traffic: hundreds of thousands of people will converge on the totality band. Have a plan B if the forecast is cloudy — a 100 km drive can make the difference between seeing the eclipse and seeing nothing. Bring water, snacks, warm clothing and something to sit on.
Totality lasts barely 2 minutes. Don't spend it all behind a camera: look at the sky, the corona, the stars appearing, feel the sudden temperature drop. Many observers describe it as the most powerful experience of their lives.
Pinpoint exactly where you plan to watch the eclipse. Search for a city, use your current position, or click directly on the map. The countdown will update.
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Click on the map to place or move your observation point. Your coordinates are stored locally in your browser.
Disclaimer. The displayed eclipse times and totality band are indicative and must be verified on a specialized source (NASA, IMCCE, timeanddate.com) for your exact location.
Weather, light pollution or local conditions may make observation impossible. Always have a plan B.
Strictly follow official eye-safety guidelines: only ISO 12312-2 certified glasses protect your eyes during partial phases.
