La Marina Alta Prepares for Near-Total Solar Eclipse on August 12

The region will be a prime location to observe this astronomical phenomenon, with solar disk obscurations of up to 99.90%.

Image of a partial solar eclipse over a Mediterranean coastal landscape at sunset, with the sun low on the horizon.
IA

Image of a partial solar eclipse over a Mediterranean coastal landscape at sunset, with the sun low on the horizon.

La Marina Alta is preparing for the observation of a near-total solar eclipse on August 12, a phenomenon set to begin around 7:39 PM and reach its peak at approximately 8:34 PM.

In several municipalities across the region, the solar disk will be obscured by percentages ranging from 99.71% in Calp to 99.90% in Dénia, according to data from the eclipse viewer launched by the Generalitat. This event, although partial at its maximum phase in La Marina Alta, promises to be highly spectacular.
The phenomenon will start in the region around 7:39 PM and reach its maximum point at approximately 8:34 PM, right at sunset. It will therefore be a delicate observation eclipse, as the sun will be very low, between 3.6 and 3.9 degrees in altitude. This will require careful selection of the viewing location, as any building, mountain, or trees to the west-northwest could obstruct the view of the central moment.
Locations with a clear horizon to the west will be the most suitable. In contrast, enclosed urban areas, narrow streets, unfavorably oriented slopes, or points with nearby mountains in that direction may prevent viewing the eclipse in its most interesting phase. The Generalitat has launched a specific website about the eclipse, providing practical information, safety recommendations, educational resources, and observation points.
In Dénia, the darkening will reach 99.90%, the highest value among the consulted captures. Very close will be Xàbia, with 99.88%, followed by Pego, with 99.84%, and Teulada, where the viewer indicates 99.81%. It will also be very intense in Vall d’Ebo (99.80%), Xaló (99.79%), Benissa (99.78%), Vall d’Alcalà (99.77%), Castell de Castells (99.72%), and Calp (99.71%).
The Generalitat emphasizes that the eclipse should not be viewed directly without adequate protection. The official portal recommends using only eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 certification and also warns of the risk of looking at the sun through cameras, mobile phones, binoculars, or telescopes without specific solar filters.