On August 12th, 2026, the Moon
totally eclipsed
the Sun and
cast its shadow
across Siberia, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and Portugal.
Today’s image
features two
total solar eclipses
viewed from
Zaragoza, Spain,
one over the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and the other reflecting
in the Ebro River. For a few moments, Spain saw its first major total solar eclipse
since 1905. Those witnessing totality may experience a chill in the air, the
quieting of birds, the confused chirps of insects, and the shared awe of many. It’s
the corona’s
time to shine as the Sun’s bright disk is blocked by the Moon. Among other
reasons to study eclipses,
they help scientists understand why the corona is millions of degrees hotter than the Sun’s surface.
Enthusiastic citizens
can contribute to these studies by recording how wildlife responds, imaging the corona,
and monitoring air temperature and clouds.