- The 2026 total solar eclipse will occur on August 12 and pass through parts of Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and Portugal.
- The path of totality will not cross the U.S., but parts of the northern U.S. and Canada may see a partial eclipse.
- NASA’s live eclipse coverage begins at 1:15 p.m. ET, with expert commentary.
Skywatchers have another major celestial event to look forward to this summer. On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of the Northern Hemisphere, giving millions of people the chance to watch the moon completely block out the sun.
For Americans hoping to experience totality, though, there's a catch: You'll need to travel outside the U.S—or have that overseas vacation already in the books. The eclipse's path of totality will pass through far northern Russia, Greenland, western Iceland, northern and eastern Spain, and a small part of Portugal.
Will the 2026 solar eclipse be visible in the U.S.?
Much of Canada and parts of the northern United States will be able to see the moon cover at least part of the sun. How much of the sun you'll see obscured—and exactly when the eclipse will be visible—will depend on where you live.
So, if you're in the northern U.S., it's worth checking the eclipse's local visibility before heading outside. The farther north you are, the better your chances of seeing more of the sun covered.
How can I watch from the U.S.?
If you're watching from the U.S., do not look directly at the sun without proper eye protection, even during a partial eclipse. You'll need approved eclipse glasses or another safe solar-viewing method designed specifically for viewing the sun. And no, your regular sunglasses aren't a substitute.
Only people who are inside the path of totality can safely remove their eclipse glasses—and only during the brief period when the moon completely covers the sun. As soon as any portion of the sun becomes visible again, eclipse glasses should go back on.
Not in the path of totality? You can still watch the event from home. NASA's live eclipse coverage begins at 1:15 p.m. ET, with views from locations along the path of totality and commentary from NASA experts.
Whether you're planning an international trip to experience totality or simply stepping outside to catch the partial eclipse from the U.S., August 12 is one celestial event you'll want to have on your calendar.
Rosamelia is a writer at Good Housekeeping, covering everything related to Gen Z, lifestyle, and online trends. She’s a graduate of NYU's Magazine and Digital Storytelling program. In her free time, you can find her reading and reviewing books on her bookstagram: amelias_biblioteca.
