Solar Eclipse over Gran Canaria: The Spectacle of 12 August 2026

On 12 August 2026, the sky above Gran Canaria will host a natural event the island hasn't witnessed since 1959: a total solar eclipse, visible as a partial eclipse with 67 to 74 per cent coverage over the Canary Islands. On the Spanish mainland the sun will be completely obscured. It is the first total solar eclipse visible from Spain since 1912. CITA News, your Gran Canaria news source, explains what the spectacle means for the south of the island.

What Exactly Happens on 12 August?

The moon's core shadow will travel from Siberia across Greenland and Iceland to Spain. The path spans roughly 290 kilometres wide, totality lasts up to 2 minutes and 18 seconds. On Gran Canaria, the event begins shortly before sunset — a spectacular sight above Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés and Meloneras.

The Perseid meteor shower peaks the same evening — up to 150 meteors per hour during a new moon.

Astro-Tourism: Gran Canaria Is Gearing Up

The Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) is installing ten "atalayas cósmicas" — cosmic viewing platforms. On Gran Canaria, Roque Nublo is considered one of the best locations: unobstructed westward views, minimal light pollution, dramatic backdrop.

Fernando Jáuregui at the Museo Elder is coordinating a documentary for Spanish planetariums. The islands hold "Starlight Reserve" certification since 2014 — astro-tourism is being strengthened long-term.

The combination of solar eclipse, Perseids and warm summer evenings makes Maspalomas an ideal observation point for families and astronomy enthusiasts.

Safety: Never Without Protective Glasses

The solar eclipse must never be observed with the naked eye. Only ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses are approved.

Countdown: Five Months

For Gran Canaria, this is a unique opportunity to position the island as a science and experience tourism destination. The spectacle won't occur in this combination again until 2027.

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