Pep Marcús (born 1975 in Soller), a professor, astronomy communicator, and president of Club Newton, will give a talk titled “Eclipsi 2026, guia de supervivència” on Friday, 17 April in Palma. One week later, at the same time and place, he will lead a practical workshop where participants can observe the Sun safely through telescopes. Both events are organised by the Acadèmia del Clima with support from Caixa Colonya, Club Newton and Astromo.
A rare solar eclipse event
A major astronomical event is expected on 12 August 2026, when a total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of Mallorca. According to Marcús, totality will occur at around 8.30pm local time and last between 94 and 96 seconds, depending on the viewing location. During this brief period, daylight will fade dramatically, creating conditions similar to night. Around 15 minutes later, the Sun will set while still partially eclipsed (between 40% and 60%).
Events like this are extremely rare in the region, with no similar occurrence recorded there for roughly 400 years. In some locations, observers may even see the partially eclipsed Sun setting over the sea horizon.
However, visibility will vary across the island. In certain inland areas, mountain ranges such as the Serra de Tramuntanamay block the view entirely.
Where the eclipse will (and won’t) be visible
Not all coastal locations will offer a clear view. Beaches such as Cala Deya, Sa Calobra, Cala Tuent and Cala Sant Vicenç are expected to have limited or no visibility due to their orientation and surrounding terrain.
More favourable viewing spots include areas along parts of the Tramuntana range, as well as coastal zones such as El Toro–Santa Ponsa, Cala Pi and Cap de ses Salines.
Authorities are also considering safety measures at sea, such as limiting how close boats can approach the coastline to avoid obstructing views.
Preparation and safety
To prepare for the event, simulation activities are planned for 29 and 30 April at public locations where the eclipse and sunset alignment will be similar to that of 12 August. These are being organised with regional authorities to identify safe gathering areas and ensure access for emergency services.
The “survival guide” theme of Marcús’s talk highlights a key issue: eye safety. Looking directly at the Sun—even during an eclipse—can cause serious damage. Certified eclipse glasses meeting the ISO 12312-2 standard are essential. Telescopes and binoculars must also use proper solar filters, and observation should be limited in duration.
Historical and future context
The talk will also revisit the total solar eclipse of 31 August 1905, which attracted international scientific teams to Mallorca and even led to temporary industrial shutdowns to reduce air pollution during observations.
Looking ahead, Marcús will discuss future events, including a total solar eclipse on 2 August 2027 and an annular solar eclipse on 26 January 2028.
Weather and logistics
Weather conditions, especially cloud cover or haze, could affect visibility, although the overall darkening effect should still be noticeable even under cloudy skies. Reliable forecasts will only be available a few days before the event.
Authorities are also preparing for large crowds, as both residents and tourists are expected to travel to key viewing locations. Traffic congestion, restricted access, and safety concerns—particularly in mountainous areas after sunset—are all being considered. Plans are being developed to manage mobility and reduce risks during and after the eclipse.
This rare eclipse offers a unique opportunity for observers, but it also requires careful planning—both to find the best viewing spot and to ensure safety throughout the experience.