Eclipse 26
The Moon meets the Sun in August’s biggest sky event. For a few magical minutes we can see the Moon, Sun and Earth line up – turning daytime temporarily into night, and not seen again in Ireland until 2090!
Path Maps & Times
On the evening of Wednesday the 12th of August, a total solar eclipse will be visible from certain places on Earth. Here in Ireland, we will experience between 93% and 98% of totality, meaning that over 90% of our view of the Sun will be blocked out by the Moon, making it nearly a total solar eclipse between 6pm and 8pm. For a few magical minutes we can see the Moon, Sun and Earth line up – turning daytime temporarily into night! Want a front – row seat to the eclipse? Explore the link to see the maps exact time, path and visibility from your location. Total Solar Eclipse on 12 Aug 2026: Path Map & Times
Safety and Information
As one of nature’s most spectacular shows we must remember to never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye as the sunlight contains strong and harmful ultraviolet (UV) light which will damage your eyes. Solar eclipse glasses can be purchased or obtained at events in partnership with ESERO Ireland so keep your eye out for events as your next mission awaits.
Find out how you can have the best chance of seeing this solar eclipse, your countdown timer, information about the eclipse, local events and more at the dedicated website Eclipse26.
Check back here for more information and updates on events taking place around Ireland, and how you can have the best chance of seeing this solar eclipse. You can also follow ESA – European solar eclipses to keep up to date on activities as they get ready for three European eclipses over the next three years.
Want to become an Eclipse Expert?
Check out our astronomically amazing Solar Eclipse 2026 Guide, packed with activities to make your own solar viewer, safety tips and an exclusive look into the careers of astrophysicists.
Created in partnership with DIAS Dunsink Observatory.
Éclips - As Gaeilge
We also have our Eclipse Guide as Gaeilge – Léimh an Eclipse Guide 2026 anseo!
Treoir maidir le hÉiclips na Gréine i mí Lúnasa 2026 in Éirinn
Spectacular Solar Eclipse Events 26
Be part of the excitement – discover an eclipse event happening near you!
Do you have an event planned for the Eclipse? Let us know!
ESERO Ireland can offer support through promotion and links with space education experts.
ESA International Live Eclipse Broadcast
ESA will host a live broadcast from the Observatorio Astrofísico de Javalambre in Teruel (Spain), a top-class astronomical facility located within the band of totality, bringing together experts to explain the science behind the eclipse and its wider relevance. The broadcast will be available in English via ESA Web TV and YouTube.
It will be hosted by Dame Dr. Maggie Aderin, award-winning space scientist and science communicator, and feature Professor Carole Mundell (ESA’s Director of Science) amongst other special guests.
"Inspired by the Eclipse" Photography Exhibition
As excitement builds for the upcoming solar eclipse, MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory is inviting photographers of all ages and abilities to take part in ‘Inspired by the Solar Eclipse’, a photography competition celebrating not just the celestial event itself but the stories, emotions and memories it inspires.
While images of the eclipse itself are always welcome, the competition encourages people to look beyond and explore the many ways that this natural phenomenon touches our lives.
From the wonder on a child’s face as they witness an eclipse for the very first time, to families and friends gathering together to enjoy the experience. The competition seeks photographs that capture the human connection to the eclipse.
Entrants are also encouraged to explore the striking shadows cast across landscapes changing light, reflections, and silhouettes.
The competition is open to photographers of all experience levels, from first time smartphone photographers to astro-photography enthusiasts.
Winning entries will be chosen to be part of an exhibition at Blackrock Castle Observatory.
Send your entries to donna.fitzgerald@bco.ie
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