How and when can the solar eclipse be seen in Andorra?
The phenomenon will begin at approximately 7:35 p.m. and reach its maximum around 8:29 p.m.
Andorra is preparing to experience this Wednesday, August 12, one of the most notable astronomical phenomena of recent years: a partial solar eclipse that will be visible from much of the Iberian Peninsula. The phenomenon will begin at approximately 7:35 p.m. and reach its maximum around 8:29 p.m., shortly before sunset.
The Ministry of Health and the Trade, Competition and Consumer Affairs Department have reminded the public of the need to take extreme precautions when observing the eclipse and to use only approved protective equipment. Looking directly at the Sun without adequate protection can cause serious and irreversible eye damage.
CE-marked glasses meeting ISO 12312-2
Andorran authorities recommend using only specific solar-viewing glasses that carry the European CE marking and comply with ISO 12312-2, which establishes safety requirements for solar filters.
These filters must block 99.9% of visible radiation, 100% of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and at least 97% of infrared (IR) radiation. They must also be in perfect condition, without scratches, damage or irregularities that could compromise vision or safety.
The glasses must completely cover the eyes, must not have been modified or repaired, and must include information about the manufacturer, instructions for use, safety warnings and the expiry date or expected service life. Authorities recommend purchasing them from trusted establishments, such as opticians and specialist retailers.
Regular sunglasses are not suitable
The Government stresses that ordinary sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection, even if they are very dark. Homemade methods such as X-rays, smoked glass or photographic negatives are also unsuitable.
Likewise, the eclipse should not be viewed directly through binoculars, telescopes or cameras unless these devices are equipped with specific, approved solar filters.
Regarding certain products withdrawn from the market in several Spanish autonomous communities, published information indicates that the withdrawals were due to the filters being excessively dark. This could encourage users to remove the glasses while trying to locate the Sun, exposing their eyes directly to solar radiation.
For this reason, the recommendation is clear: approved glasses should be put on before looking at the Sun and should not be removed while directly observing the eclipse.
Andorra has detected no non-approved glasses
The Trade, Competition and Consumer Affairs Department reports that it has received no complaints or alerts concerning the sale of non-approved glasses in Andorran establishments.
According to the authorities, it has therefore not been necessary to withdraw any product from the national market related to the observation of the solar eclipse.
Where and when to watch the eclipse from Andorra
To observe the phenomenon under the best possible conditions, people are advised to look for open spaces with a clear view towards the west, as the eclipse will reach its maximum when the Sun is very low on the horizon.
As for the weather, cloudy conditions are expected during the afternoon, with the possibility of isolated showers. However, the forecast indicates that the rainfall should ease around 7 p.m., followed by progressively clearer skies.
Some low cloud could remain until around 8 p.m., but if the forecast develops as expected, weather conditions during the peak of the eclipse could be favourable for observation.
In any case, authorities recommend checking the latest weather forecast before heading out to watch the phenomenon.
Part of an exceptional sequence of eclipses
The August 12, 2026 solar eclipse will occur as the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, partially blocking sunlight as seen from Andorra.
The event is part of an exceptional sequence of three major solar eclipses visible from the Iberian Peninsula between 2026 and 2028. Following Wednesday's eclipse, the next major events in the sequence will take place on August 2, 2027, and January 26, 2028.
Wednesday's eclipse therefore represents a significant opportunity to witness an uncommon astronomical phenomenon. However, one basic rule remains essential: never look directly at the Sun without approved solar-viewing glasses that are in perfect condition.