August 12, 2026, will mark an astronomical milestone in Spain with the first total solar eclipse visible from the Iberian Peninsula in over a century. Although Alcorcón will be outside the path of totality, residents can enjoy an almost total spectacle without leaving the city.
The eclipse will be partial, but with a solar obscuration of 99.89% at its peak, scheduled for 8:32 PM. This high obscuration will cause a significant darkening of the sky in the minutes before sunset, offering an exceptional visual experience.
Unlike areas within the path of totality, in Alcorcón, sunlight will not completely disappear, nor will the Sun's corona be visible. To experience the full phenomenon, one would need to travel to northern and eastern Spain.
The key moments of the eclipse from Alcorcón will be: start around 7:37 PM, maximum at 8:32 PM, and end shortly after 9:20 PM, coinciding with sunset.
Given the time of the event, it is recommended to find a location with a clear western horizon. Experts emphasize safety: never look directly at the Sun without adequate protection. Regular sunglasses are insufficient; certified solar eclipse glasses or indirect projection methods are required.
