TotalityBasque Country, Spain
Bilbao Solar Eclipse — August 12, 2026
From Bilbao, Spain, the August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse brings 31 s of totality, with mid-eclipse at 20:27 local time (UTC+2). The Sun will sit just 8.1° above the west horizon, so an unobstructed low view is essential.
Eclipse at a glance
TypeTotal
Max obscuration100%
Magnitude1.001
Totality31 s
Maximum (local)20:27 UTC+2
Maximum (UTC)18:27:36
Sun altitude8.1°
Sun directionwest (282.7°)
What you’ll see in Bilbao
You are inside the path of totality. The partial phase narrows the Sun to a thin crescent over about an hour; then, for 31 s, the Moon covers the Sun completely and the corona appears. Eye protection is required at all times except during totality itself. Because the Sun is very low here, choose a spot with a clear view toward the west horizon.
Eclipse timeline for Bilbao
| Event | Local (UTC+2) | UTC | What happens |
|---|---|---|---|
| First contact (C1) | 19:31 | 17:31:46 | Partial eclipse begins |
| Second contact (C2) | 20:27 | 18:27:21 | Totality begins |
| Maximum | 20:27 | 18:27:36 | Mid-totality |
| Third contact (C3) | 20:27 | 18:27:52 | Totality ends |
| Fourth contact (C4) | 21:20 | 19:20:02 | Partial eclipse ends |
Times computed from NASA/GSFC Besselian elements (Espenak) for 43.263°, -2.935°. Local times use the Europe/Madrid time zone.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Bilbao in the path of totality?
- Yes. Bilbao lies inside the path of the August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse, with about 31 s of totality at mid-eclipse (20:27 UTC+2).
- What time is totality in Bilbao?
- Totality is centred on 20:27 local time (UTC+2) on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. First contact and last contact bracket a partial phase lasting roughly an hour either side.
- Do I need eye protection?
- Yes. Certified ISO 12312-2 solar viewers are required whenever any part of the Sun’s bright disc is visible. You may remove them only during the brief total phase.