Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar sits just outside the path of totality. On August 12, 2026 the Moon covers 99.6% of the Sun at maximum around 5:50 PM local time (GMT), with the Sun a comfortable 24° above the horizon. That final sliver of Sun is enough to keep the corona hidden and the full darkness of totality at bay.
When it happens in Vestmannaeyjar
| Partial begins | 4:49 PM GMT |
| Maximum (99.6% covered) | 5:50 PM GMT |
| Partial ends | 6:48 PM GMT |
All times local (GMT); the Sun is 24° above the horizon at maximum.
What you'll see
At 99.6% coverage the sky will dim noticeably and the light will take on a strange, flat quality, but the day will not go dark and you will not see the corona or stars appear as they would in totality. What you will see is a hair-thin crescent Sun — an extraordinary sight, but one that still requires eye protection every second. For the full total eclipse experience, the path of totality passes to the north across mainland Iceland.
Where to watch from
With the Sun at 24° above the horizon at maximum, most open spots on these volcanic islands will give you a fine view. Head somewhere away from buildings and with a clear sky to the south-west for the best experience.
Protect your eyes
Because Vestmannaeyjar never reaches totality, there is no safe moment to look at the Sun with the naked eye — not even at 99.6% maximum. Keep certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses on from the first contact around 4:49 PM right through until the eclipse ends around 6:48 PM. Ordinary sunglasses are not safe substitutes.
Common questions
Will Vestmannaeyjar see a total solar eclipse?
No. Despite covering an extraordinary 99.6% of the Sun, this remains a partial eclipse from Vestmannaeyjar — the Sun is never fully blocked. The path of totality runs across a different track of Iceland to the north.
What time does the eclipse peak in Vestmannaeyjar?
The partial phase begins around 4:49 PM, reaches its 99.6% maximum at 5:50 PM, and the Moon clears the Sun by about 6:48 PM — all in local Iceland time (GMT).
Do I need eclipse glasses in Vestmannaeyjar?
Yes, for the entire duration. Because the Sun is never fully covered here, there is no safe naked-eye moment at any point — keep certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses on from start to finish.