How solar eclipses in 2026 and 2027 are reshaping travel and science plans

Interest in upcoming solar eclipses has intensified as fresh maps and itineraries circulate among travelers and scientists. The next two total solar eclipses—Aug. 12, 2026 and Aug. 2, 2027 (ET)—are driving a spike in bookings to remote viewing locations, while researchers prepare targeted observations that could yield new data on the Sun’s atmosphere.

Where and when to watch

The next total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026 (ET) will trace a path of totality across high northern latitudes, crossing parts of Greenland and Iceland before sweeping toward northern coastal regions of Spain. The following major event on Aug. 2, 2027 (ET) will cross different parts of North Africa and the Middle East, offering totality to a different set of countries and travel markets. Several smaller partial and annular eclipses will occur in intervening years, but these two totals are attracting the most public interest because of their long durations of darkness in zones under the centerline.

For people planning trips, exact viewing sites along the path of totality matter: the width of the totality band is relatively narrow, so small changes in location can mean the difference between a few seconds of totality and several minutes. Those aiming to experience totality should plan to be directly inside the path for the best view.

What travelers and observers should prepare

Travel demand for eclipse-capable towns and small airports is rising. Local accommodations in well-positioned towns often reach capacity months in advance, and services such as guided viewing platforms, charter flights and specialized tours are expanding. Weather remains the single biggest wild card; clear skies are essential, and many experienced watchers book backup options and flexible itineraries to chase clear conditions.

Eye safety is non-negotiable. Certified solar viewers or eclipse glasses that meet international safety standards are required for looking at the Sun during all partial phases. Only during the brief moment of totality—when the Sun is completely blocked—can observers safely view the eclipse without eye protection, and that window lasts only minutes at most. Photography also demands preparation: solar filters are needed for any camera or telescope while any part of the Sun’s bright disk remains visible.

Scientists looking to exploit these events are coordinating instruments and observation campaigns. Total solar eclipses present rare opportunities to study the Sun’s corona, test instrumentation, and collaborate on time-sensitive measurements that are difficult to obtain under normal conditions.

Why these solar eclipses matter beyond spectacle

Beyond tourism, eclipses serve as focal points for education and public outreach. Communities along the paths typically stage events that combine viewing with lectures, school programs and public science demonstrations. Eclipses also catalyze local economies—hotels, transport, food services and small businesses often see significant short-term boosts.

On the scientific side, totality allows scientists to observe solar phenomena like coronal structure and dynamics in a way that no ground-based instrument normally can. Coordinated observations from multiple sites can reveal temporal changes and provide redundancy if weather interferes at one location.

As planning accelerates, prospective viewers should finalize travel, verify local regulations and health requirements, and assemble proper observing gear well ahead of each eclipse date. For many, the next two years present a rare chance to witness one of nature’s most dramatic displays—and to do so safely and with a plan.