Guide to enjoying the great solar eclipse of August 12, 2026
On August 12, 2026, Spain will be able to witness one of the most eagerly anticipated astronomical phenomena: a total solar eclipse. This will be the first total solar eclipse visible from the Iberian Peninsula in over a century!
Although it won’t be the only one (between 2026 and 2028, Spain will see three consecutive solar eclipses), this is the first, and you won’t want to miss it.
From iNMSOL we will tell you everything you need to know so you don’t miss out.
How will the eclipse be seen from Granada?
Granada will enjoy a partial eclipse of very high magnitude, with a degree of solar disk obscuration ranging between 95% and 98%.
In Granada capital, the phenomenon will reach its peak with a 96% obscuration (according to the National Astronomical Observatory). The Sun will be almost completely covered by the Moon, causing the day to darken noticeably.
Timeline for the eclipse in Granada capital
The eclipse will occur during sunset, adding a ‘romantic’ touch to this experience. These are the scheduled times for Granada capital:
- Start of partial eclipse: 7:42 PM (Approximate time)
- Maximum obscuration (96%): 8:37 PM (Approximate time)
- Sunset: 9:10 PM (Approximate time)
- End of eclipse: 9:29 PM (Approximate time)
Important! The low position of the Sun during the final phase of the phenomenon will require finding a clear spot with good visibility towards the west.
The best places to observe the eclipse in Granada
Granada’s viewpoints will provide truly unique settings:
- Mirador de San Nicolás
- Mirador de San Miguel Alto
- Llano de la Perdiz
- Silla del Moro
Events and activities surrounding the eclipse in Granada
Institutions and companies in the province will be organizing numerous activities to help you experience the eclipse in a special way:
- “Una vista única. Cuídala” (A Unique View. Take Care of It) campaign: promoted by ONCE together with the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, it is distributing 2 million certified eclipse glasses free of charge throughout Spain. In Granada, the Parque de las Ciencias (Science Park) is collaborating in the dissemination of this campaign. In addition, ONCE has developed a sound experience so that blind people can follow the eclipse through hearing.
- Hotel Barceló’s “To Look Up” Experience: the Palacio Gran Vía and the Hotel Barceló Carmen Granada are offering an evening that combines astronomical observation, Kamado cuisine, and signature cocktails.
- Screening in the Sacromonte: after the eclipse, Granada will screen the film ‘Quién vio los templos caer’ (Who Saw the Temples Fall) in the caves of the Sacromonte.
Safety and recommendations for observing the eclipse
- Never look directly at the Sun without proper protection.
Direct observation of a solar eclipse can cause irreversible eye damage. Follow these recommendations from the National Geographic Institute (IGN):
- Use certified protection
- Eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2:2015 certification. You can purchase them at pharmacies, opticians, and large retailers, or pick them up for free at ONCE sales points when you buy a coupon.
- Professional filters for optical instruments.
- Do not use conventional sunglasses, as they do not provide adequate protection.
- Prohibited methods
- Do not use binoculars, telescopes, or cameras without specific solar filters.
- Do not look directly at the Sun at any time.
The solar eclipse of August 12, 2026, will be an astronomical milestone that will remain etched in our memories. So, if you are lucky enough to be in Granada on that date, you cannot miss it. At iNMSOL, we encourage all our students to enjoy this phenomenon safely and responsibly.
Get your glasses ready, choose your viewpoint, and don’t miss the great Spanish eclipse!
