Key facts
- Millions are expected to view the total solar eclipse across Spain and Iceland.
- Hotel prices have surged in European locations due to the eclipse.
- Spain has implemented a large police operation and public safety campaign due to the eclipse coinciding with wildfire risk.
- Iceland expects up to 80,000 visitors for the eclipse.
- NASA will use aircraft and balloons to study the eclipse's effects on the atmosphere.
Millions of people across Spain and Iceland are preparing to witness a total solar eclipse, a rare astronomical event that has led to a surge in demand and prices for accommodations and protective glasses. Authorities in Spain anticipate up to 6 million visitors in areas within the eclipse's path, prompting a significant public safety campaign due to coinciding wildfire risks. The government also views the event as an opportunity to showcase less-visited regions and redistribute crowds away from coastal resorts.
In Iceland, eclipse glasses have sold out in anticipation of up to 80,000 visitors for a narrow path of totality. NASA plans to observe the eclipse from high-altitude aircraft and balloons to study its atmospheric effects. The phenomenon, historically viewed with awe and superstition, is now a draw for enthusiasts known as 'eclipse chasers' who travel globally to experience totality.
The UK is also anticipating its most significant partial solar eclipse since 1999, with up to 96% coverage expected, leading to high demand for specialized viewing glasses. While clear skies are generally predicted for the UK, some areas may experience cloud cover. Spain last witnessed a total solar eclipse in 1912 and is set to experience more in the coming years.