Over the next three years, astronomers are predicting a rare series of three consecutive solar eclipses, including one with a record-breaking six-minute period of totality. The first eclipse, on August 12, 2026, will be Europe’s first total solar eclipse in 27 years. The best viewing locations will be in western Iceland and northern and eastern Spain. The Spanish government has already formed an interagency commission to handle the expected influx of millions of tourists. The highlight of the series will be on August 2, 2027, when there will be a historic totality phase of six minutes and 20 seconds—the longest of the 21st century—with peak darkness occurring near Luxor, Egypt. The series concludes on January 26, 2028, with an annular “ring of fire” eclipse visible across parts of South America, Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.
Over the next three years, astronomers promise us a rare series of three solar eclipses, one after the other. According to TwojaPogoda, during the longest eclipse, the darkness in the middle of the day will last six minutes.
The first eclipse is expected on August 12, 2026. It will be the first total eclipse in Europe in 27 years.
Those wishing to witness a total solar eclipse — when the full moon covers the sun, causing darkness to fall — should head to western Iceland or northern and eastern Spain. Millions of locals and tourists will be able to enjoy the spectacle in both places.
Spain is already preparing for the influx of tourists. The government has established a special inter-ministerial commission to manage logistics and security for this exceptional event. Similar preparations are underway in other countries along the “path of totality,” where local authorities are planning mass viewing events.
The longest eclipse will occur on August 2, 2027. Due to the Earth and Moon’s unique orbital configuration, the total phase will last a record-breaking six minutes and 20 seconds. This eclipse is considered the longest of the 21st century and one of the most spectacular in recent decades. Consequently, it is already generating significant excitement and attracting worldwide attention.
In 2027, the path of totality will pass through southern Spain, North Africa, the Middle East, and Somalia. The longest period of darkness, lasting over six minutes, will occur near Luxor, Egypt.
The series will conclude with an annular solar eclipse on January 26, 2028. On that day, the moon will create a beautiful “ring of fire” around the sun’s disc. This extraordinary phenomenon will be visible in Ecuador, northern Brazil, and parts of Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.