Everything You Need to Know About Wednesday’s Solar Eclipse in Lanzarote

Lanzarote will witness a partial solar eclipse on Wednesday evening, with up to 74% of the Sun obscured in some parts of the island. The event coincides with the annual Perseid meteor shower, making it a notable day for skywatchers.

The eclipse is the first of three solar eclipses that will be visible from Spain between 2026 and 2028.

What time is the eclipse?

According to the National Geographic Institute (IGN), the eclipse will begin at 6:56pm in the Canary Islands, reach its maximum at 7:51pm, and end as the Sun sets at 8:36pm.

How to watch it safely

The eclipse should only be viewed using certified solar eclipse glasses. Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection can cause permanent retinal damage or blindness.

The IGN also advises against using homemade filters or improvised viewing devices. Eclipse glasses should be free from scratches or cracks and, even when wearing them, it is recommended not to look at the Sun continuously for more than a minute at a time.

Taking photographs

Anyone hoping to photograph the eclipse should use a certified solar filter on their camera or smartphone. Without one, the camera’s sensor or lens could be damaged by the Sun’s intense light.

Where to watch the eclipse

The National Geographic Institute has published an online map showing viewing conditions across the island, including the expected level of solar coverage and weather forecasts for different locations:

https://visualizadores.ign.es/eclipses/2026

The Elder Museum of Science and Technology will also host public viewing points in Lanzarote, where certified eclipse glasses will be available.

In Lanzarote, the viewing area will be on the La Santa promenade, above the steps, and will be open from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. Telescopes will also be available for the public to use.

In addition to the eclipse, skywatchers may also have the chance to see the Perseid meteor shower, commonly known as the Tears of Saint Lawrence, later in the evening if weather conditions are favourable.