During a total solar eclipse observed from the Javalambre Astrophysical Observatory near Teruel, Spain, a person captures the moment as the moon partially covers the sun. The skies over Iceland darkened completely on Wednesday afternoon as a full solar eclipse took place along the country’s far west coast. Thanks to a brief clearing in the clouds, residents and travelers had the chance to witness the celestial event. A Reuters observer noted, “Watching live from Reykjavik, even under an overcast sky, the crowd outside Hallgrimskirkja erupted in cheers when everything went dark overhead.”
Millions gathered across Iceland and northern Spain to witness Western Europe’s first total eclipse in 27 years. Spanish authorities cautioned viewers to steer clear of areas experiencing heatwaves due to the heightened wildfire risk. Officials anticipated around 6 million visitors, mainly in rural regions within the eclipse’s path, including parts of northern Spain and the Balearic Islands, according to Juan Cruz, Spain’s Secretary of State for Science.
“I hope tonight sparks a new wave of astrophysicists,” Cruz remarked. “It’s such a unique moment.” The eclipse’s eclipse will be followed swiftly by sunset in Spain, adding to its allure.
Police, aircraft, and helicopters are on standby, preparing for the phenomenon. Historically, when day briefly turns to twilight and animals quiet down as the moon passes between Earth and the Sun, it was often seen as an omen or divine sign. Today, Spain is viewing it as an opportunity to promote lesser-known regions and attract tourists away from crowded beaches—while implementing large-scale safety measures to prevent wildfires. The Interior Minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, announced that 25,000 officers are assigned to secure the observation sites, with nearly 100 planes and helicopters also deployed.
He emphasized the importance of visiting designated observation points and respecting restrictions around parks. “Remember, the wildfire risk is very high right now due to extreme temperatures,” he warned.
Lola Guerreiro traveled overnight to the mountains near Arcos de las Salinas in eastern Spain, home to Europe’s largest educational astronomy center, Galactica, and the Javalambre Observatory, to witness the eclipse after a long seven-hour drive from Extremadura. “Watching a total solar eclipse has been a lifelong dream, and I didn’t want to miss it,” she said.
Meanwhile, Sergio, a 60-year-old visiting from Italy, drove with his family in a camper van to Arija in northern Spain. “I feel a little emotional, knowing I might never see a spectacle like this again,” he shared.
Spain last experienced a total eclipse in 1912. The next is expected on August 2, 2027, followed by an annular eclipse in January 2028—completing the so-called “Iberian Eclipse Trio.”
In Reykjavik, Iceland, eclipse glasses have been sold out for days as the Nordic nation of about 400,000 prepares to host up to 80,000 visitors. Totality was visible around 5:44 p.m. local time, casting the western coast into darkness for just over two minutes. Most cities experienced shorter periods of nightfall before the shadow continued eastward. Authorities advised early arrival to avoid traffic congestion.
The event included a planned performance by singer Björk at an eclipse-themed gathering south of Reykjavik. NASA plans to send a high-altitude WB-57 aircraft to track the moon’s shadow, while balloon researchers will study how the sudden darkness and cooling affect the atmosphere.
Beyond casual viewers, dedicated eclipse enthusiasts—known as “eclipse chasers”—travel worldwide to align with the path of totality. Gordon Telepun, a retired U.S. plastic surgeon and amateur astronomer who has documented six total eclipses, chose Mallorca for this event, citing Spain’s ideal conditions for eclipse watching.