Scientific Background

Why do solar eclipses happen?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between Earth and the Sun, completely blocking it.

This alignment is possible because:

• The Sun is about 400 times larger than the Moon

• But also 400 times farther away

• This makes them appear the same size in the sky

The Moon casts a narrow shadow on Earth, and only locations within this path experience totality.

How rare are total solar eclipses?

They are rare at any one location:

• On average, one occurs every 375 years in the same place

• Reykjavík experiences one roughly every 600 years

• Akureyri even less frequently

How long does totality last?

Totality can last anywhere from a few seconds to about 7.5 minutes globally.

In Iceland in 2026, it will last up to 2 minutes 13 seconds, depending on location.

When is the next total solar eclipse after 2026?

The next total solar eclipse will occur on 2 August 2027, visible from parts of:

• Southern Europe

• North Africa

• The Middle East

More information

• Eclipse2026 (ed. Sævar Helgi Bragason astronomy communicator) – A comprehensive information website edited by Sævar Helgi Bragason.