Total Solar Eclipse 2026

The Celestial Alignment

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the Sun's light. This creates a shadow that travels across the Earth's surface.

The Path of Totality

The path of totality is the narrow band where observers can see the Sun completely covered by the Moon. Outside this path, observers see a partial eclipse. The path is typically 100-200 kilometers wide.

Why It's Special

During totality, the Sun's corona (outer atmosphere) becomes visible. This is normally impossible to see due to the Sun's brightness. The sky darkens, stars become visible, and the temperature drops noticeably.

The Perfect Coincidence

Total solar eclipses are possible because the Moon and Sun appear almost the same size in our sky. The Moon is 400 times smaller than the Sun, but it's also 400 times closer to Earth, creating this remarkable alignment.