The Spanish Government has launched a new online tool to help people find the best location from which to watch the total solar eclipse on August 12.
Excitement is building ahead of the rare astronomical event, when the Moon will completely cover the Sun and briefly turn daylight into darkness shortly before sunset. It will be the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Spain in more than a century.
Spain will be among the best places in the world to witness the spectacle during its final stages. The path of totality will cross the country from Galicia before continuing eastwards towards the Balearic Islands.
With large numbers of residents and tourists expected to travel in search of the best views, the Government and the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT) have developed a web-based eclipse viewer.
The application allows users to check viewing conditions from any location and identify suitable observation points close to their home, holiday accommodation or destination. Officials hope this will reduce unnecessary journeys, traffic congestion and overcrowding at popular viewing areas.
The tool can be accessed through any mobile-phone browser without registering or providing personal information. It has been designed to offer clear and immediate information during the days leading up to the eclipse and on August 12 itself.
It will also help local councils and other public authorities identify appropriate viewing areas and introduce any necessary traffic, crowd-control and safety measures.
Tourism and hospitality businesses can use the platform to determine whether their locations offer suitable conditions and plan eclipse-related activities for visitors.
The Government’s Interministerial Commission for the Eclipse Trio is promoting the application as part of preparations for three major solar eclipses that will be visible from Spain in 2026, 2027 and 2028.
Anyone planning to watch the August eclipse is reminded never to look directly at the Sun without certified eclipse glasses or other approved solar-viewing equipment.
