The Fundació Institut d’Astronomia i Astronàutica de Mallorca, through Amado Carbonell, has released a visibility map for the total solar eclipse that will be visible from the island on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.
This is the most eagerly awaited total solar eclipse in decades and the first in a series of such events that can be seen from Mallorca in 2026, 2027 (partial) and 2028 (annular). Mallorca is set to be one of the prime viewing locations, with the total phase occurring just a few degrees above the western horizon. Anticipation has already driven hotel bookings on the island into the millions.
A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow over the planet and briefly turning day into night. The 2026 eclipse will begin at 7.35 pm Spanish time, as the Moon starts to cover the Sun. Initially, the eclipse will be visible across the whole of Mallorca, but as the Sun and Moon approach sunset, observation may be affected by local topography. Some inland mountains, such as Puig de Randa (Algaida), Sant Salvador (Felanitx) and Santa Magdalena (Inca), may only offer partial views, as totality peaks at 8.32 pm, with the Sun just 2.4 degrees above sea level.
The Serra de Tramuntana will provide excellent viewing opportunities, as will parts of the south-west coast, including stretches of Andratx and Calvia, between Cap de Regana and Cap Blanc (Llucmajor), and from Colònia de Sant Jordi (Ses Salines) to Cap Salines (Santanyí). Observers in Sant Elm, Andratx, will face the obstruction of Sa Dragonera, which will block the total phase, while the Palma coastline will also miss the peak of the eclipse.
By 8.45 pm, the lunar shadow will reveal roughly 40% of the Sun’s surface, but by that time the Sun will have already set below the horizon.
Safety is crucial when observing a solar eclipse. Spectators should always use proper eclipse glasses or filters, avoiding damaged or cracked lenses, X-rays, smoked glass, or looking directly at the Sun, which can cause permanent eye damage. Telescopes should also be fitted with appropriate filters.