Viewing the Solar Eclipse in Barcelona

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The 2026 solar eclipse is the first total solar eclipse in continental Europe since the 21st century began. The total phase of the eclipse will not be visible in Barcelona, but it can be observed as a partial solar eclipse. The Moon will cover a large portion of the Sun, so it will be a spectacular sight.

Eclipse Timing

• 19:35: Partial eclipse begins; the moment the edge of the Moon touches the edge of the Sun is called first contact. 
• 20:29: Maximum eclipse: the deepest point of the eclipse, with the Sun at its most hidden. The Sun is close to the horizon, so make sure you have free sight to the WNW.
• 20:54: Sunset
• 21:20: Partial eclipse ends; the edge of the Moon leaves the edge of the Sun. Since the Sun is near the horizon at this time, we recommend going to a high point or finding an unobstructed area with free sight to the WNW for the best view of the eclipse.

Protect Your Eyes!

Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection. According to NASA, the following materials should never be used to view a solar eclipse:

• sunglasses of any kind
• color film
• medical X-ray film
• smoked glass
• floppy disks

The Sun can burn the retinas in the eyes leading to permanent damage or even blindness. This can occur even if your eyes are exposed to direct sunlight for just a few seconds.

When to Use Eclipse Glasses

Eclipse glasses must be used whenever the disk of the Sun itself can be seen. This means:

• All the time during a partial eclipse
• All the time during an annular eclipse—this includes the brief moments of annularity, when the Sun forms a dazzling ‘ring of fire’ around the Moon
• During the partial phases of a total eclipse

Plan Your Pictures

You cannot expect to take spectacular pictures of a solar eclipse using only your cell phone because smartphones and small compact cameras have a wide and small lens and a small sensor.

But, there are ways to capture the eclipse by playing to the strengths of your mobile phone.

• Find interesting scenery. Solar eclipses change both the light and shapes of the shadows. Compose your image by including trees, buildings, and reflections.
• Turn around. Sometimes the best picture is behind you.
• Project the Sun. Make a pinhole projector, and take pictures of the projection.
• Turn off your flash. Flash will disturb the natural light.

Not happy with the result? Play around, and try again.

For more events check our online events calendar.