On August 12, between 20:30 and 20:34, day will turn to night in Mallorca. AstroMallorca reminds us that it won't happen again until 2180.
Exactly one month remains until the total solar eclipse darkens the sky of Mallorca. The phenomenon, which will last just 90 seconds, will occur between 20:30 and 20:34 on the upcoming August 12. "We have waited 120 years to experience these 90 seconds," says Tomeu Mas, astronomical communicator from AstroMallorca. The island will be the epicentre of an event that will attract tens of thousands of people, many arriving from abroad.
The billboards in Palma are already displaying preventive messages in Spanish, Catalan, and English. The City Council has launched a campaign to appeal for citizen responsibility in light of the expected influx of visitors. "We will remember this for a long time. We are the only generation that will see it, as the next total eclipse visible from Mallorca will be in 2180," adds Mas.
Scientific preparations and school outreach
AstroMallorca is finalising the details of the scientific work that will be carried out during the eclipse. The organisation has prepared equipment to photograph, record, and measure the various moments of contact. "We have small scientific projects because the height of the Sun limits some studies, but we want to make the most of this opportunity," explains Mas.
Outreach has been another fundamental pillar. AstroMallorca has visited over 80 educational centres and conducted more than 200 activities across the island to explain how to safely observe the eclipse. "Many people are preparing and worrying to ensure everything goes well. There is meticulous work being done," assures the communicator.
For the residents of Mallorca, the eclipse will not just be a visual spectacle. The experts' recommendation is clear: "Forget the camera and just enjoy it. If you can see it from home, even better," advises Mas. The island is preparing for a historic day that, according to forecasts, will mobilise thousands of people on roads and observation points.
A phenomenon that won't repeat until 2180
The total solar eclipse on August 12 will be the first visible from Mallorca in 120 years. The shadow of the moon will completely cover the solar disc for 90 seconds, turning day into night. "My recommendation is to contemplate it calmly, joyfully, and with our loved ones," notes Mas.
Behind those 90 seconds of darkness lies a lot of scientific work. AstroMallorca will attempt to measure the various points of contact and check the margin of error between prediction and reality. They will also analyse environmental changes, especially the variation in light, for which they have designed specific equipment.
For the Mallorcan reader, the eclipse will be an event that affects mobility and daily life. Authorities are already preparing a special plan to manage the flow of people. The event is set for August 12 at 20:30. There is no need to travel to a specific location: from anywhere on the island with a clear sky, the phenomenon can be enjoyed. However, with approved glasses.
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