Witness Iceland’s historic total solar eclipse

The first and only total solar eclipse in the lifetime of 9 out of 10 Icelanders

Coincidentally, 17th June is Iceland’s National Day, but that didn’t exist until 1944

This makes preparation essential, so check all the information below

The total eclipse will move from north to south across western Iceland on the afternoon of 12th August.

Icewear recommend these locations as the best places to view the eclipse:

• Reykjavík

• Reykjanes Peninsula

• Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Westfjords

During a solar eclipse, the moon passes directly between the earth and the sun, briefly bocking the sun’s rays and creating a look of twilight. This is especially striking in Iceland during August, when summer days are 17 hours long. Stars and planets appear during the eclipse, and the sun’s corona becomes visible.

The “path of totality” is the narrow band where the moon completely covers the sun. Inside this path, you’ll experience full darkness. Outside it, you could still see a partial eclipse.

The eclipse will start, from north to south, on the northwestern edge of Iceland starting at 17:40 hours on 12th August. It will cross the southernmost edge of western Iceland at 17:50 hours.

Yes, for the first time in nearly 600 years, Reykjavik will experience a total solar eclipse. The eclipse will be visible from Reykjavík.

Do:

• Wear certified eclipse glasses

• Inspect your glasses before use

• Remove the glasses only after the eclipse

Don’t:

• Use sunglasses

• Use cameras without filters

• Use binoculars without solar filters