The biggest skywatching day of 2026 is August 12. A total solar eclipse will sweep across Europe. North America will see a partial eclipse. Chicago will miss totality but still get a show.
According to Space.com, the path of totality crosses Iceland, northern Spain, and parts of the Mediterranean. The event peaks around midday local time in Europe. The Washington Post reports this is the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Europe since 1999.
For North America, the partial eclipse will be visible from the northeastern U.S. and eastern Canada. Coverage decreases with distance from the Atlantic. The moon will cover roughly 70-80% of the sun at maximum in cities like New York and Boston.
Will this August’s total solar eclipse be visible from the Chicago area? No. NBC Chicago confirms the city lies outside the path of totality. However, a deep partial eclipse—approximately 70-80% coverage—will occur. Timing: around 1:45 p.m. CDT. Best viewing: clear skies, open areas. Essential gear: ISO-certified eclipse glasses.
Safety is non-negotiable. NASA recommends certified solar filters for any direct viewing. For the partial phases, eyes must be protected at all times. Pinhole projectors are a safe alternative.
Europe travelers should check local forecasts well in advance. Iceland and northern Spain offer high-altitude or coastal clear-sky options. Lodging in prime viewing zones like Reykjavik or Bilbao is already scarce. Book early. Avoid crowds by choosing less populated stretches of the path.
For remote viewers, Space.com and several observatories will host verified livestreams. Photography: use a solar filter on any camera lens. A DSLR with a 200mm lens and 1/1000s shutter speed at ISO 100 works for capturing the partial phase.
Mark your calendar for August 2026. This event is rare. The next total solar eclipse visible from continental Europe won’t occur until 2027. Prepare early. Check local resources like NBC Chicago for updates.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Will the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, be visible from Chicago?
- A: No, Chicago is outside the path of totality, but a deep partial eclipse with 70-80% coverage will be visible around 1:45 p.m. CDT, weather permitting.
- Q: Where in Europe can the total solar eclipse be seen in 2026?
- A: The path of totality crosses Iceland, northern Spain, and parts of the Mediterranean, peaking around midday local time.
- Q: What safety gear is needed to view the 2026 solar eclipse?
- A: ISO-certified eclipse glasses or solar filters are essential for direct viewing; pinhole projectors are a safe alternative.
Extended Reading
For detailed path maps and timing data, consult Space.com’s eclipse guide. For Chicago-specific timing and safety tips, refer to NBC Chicago’s report published July 14, 2026.