For fans of astronomical phenomena, 2026 promises to be an unforgettable year due to the occurrence of a rare event: a total eclipse of the Sun on August 12th. After more than a century, Portugal will once again be the scene of an unmissable moment for several generations.
According to information from Ciência Viva – National Agency for Scientific and Technological Culture, “this eclipse will be visible in its entirety only in the Montesinho Natural Park, in Bragança, and partially in the rest of the country.”
What is a total eclipse of the Sun?
This phenomenon is so rare that the last time it happened in Portugal was in 1912, and it is now scheduled for August 12, 2026 and then only in 2144. But what is it?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Earth, the Moon and the Sun are perfectly aligned, to the point where the lunar satellite momentarily obscures the solar disk.
“Day turns into night”
According to a press release from Ciência Viva – National Agency for Scientific and Technological Culture, “in 2026, for around 26 seconds, day turns into night in the north-east of Trás-os-Montes”.
Despite this, the rest of Portugal will be able to witness this phenomenon, albeit partially. Even so, the occultation of the Sun will be quite significant.
Don’t miss out! Follow us on Facebook,Instagram and now WhatsApp too!