All the solar eclipses to plan for

Whether you’re a starry-eyed stargazer channeling your inner Carl Sagan or just plotting your next bucket-list adventure like a contestant on some cosmic reality show, solar eclipses are the universe’s way of throwing a dramatic shadow party. With the recent partial solar eclipse of September 21, 2025, now in the rearview, it’s time to mark your calendars for the celestial spectacles ahead—from annular wonders in 2026 to total blackouts stretching into the 2030s. We’ve rounded up all the solar eclipses worth planning for, complete with dates, locations, and pro tips to catch the magic without frying your retinas.

2026’s ring and totality tango

Buckle up for 2026 when solar eclipses deliver a one-two punch of celestial drama. First up the annular eclipse on February 17 casts its ring of fire over Antarctica southern Africa and parts of South America—think a cosmic hula hoop that demands eclipse glasses for safe viewing. It’s not total but the eerie daylight dimming rivals any period drama’s plot twist.

Then August 12 brings a total solar eclipse slicing through Greenland Iceland and Spain plunging lucky spots into midday midnight for over two minutes. Pathfinders in Reykjavik or Madrid could snag prime seats but remember only during totality can you ditch the filters otherwise it’s retina roulette darling.

These 2026 solar eclipses aren’t just sky shows they’re travel magnets with experts predicting tourism booms in eclipse paths. NASA warns of weather woes in Arctic zones so plan backups like live streams if clouds crash the party ensuring you don’t miss the universe’s shadowy spectacle.

2027’s total eclipse triumph

Solar eclipses in 2027 kick off with an annular show on February 6, encircling the sun over South America, the Atlantic, and West Africa—perfect for adventurers chasing that fiery ring vibe, but pack those certified viewers to avoid any ocular drama.

The real headliner arrives August 2, with a total solar eclipse boasting over six minutes of totality, the longest this century, arcing from the Atlantic through Spain, North Africa, and into the Middle East. Luxor in Egypt promises ancient vibes meets cosmic blackout, drawing crowds like a prestige TV finale.

While these solar eclipses fuel wanderlust, experts from NASA highlight safety amid the hype—eclipse chasers should scout weather apps and book early, as tourism surges could turn prime spots into bustling festivals, blending science with spectacle.

2028’s Aussie eclipse showdown

Solar eclipses in 2028 start with a partial on January 26, visible from the Americas and Western Europe, but the star is July 22’s total eclipse, blanketing Australia and New Zealand in darkness for up to five minutes. Sydney siders and Kiwi adventurers, gear up for this down-under drama, blending beach vibes with cosmic chills.

Shifting to 2029, an annular solar eclipse on January 14 rings North America, from Chile to the US East Coast, creating that signature fiery halo—ideal for road trippers chasing eerie twilight. June’s partial on the 12th adds a subtle sun nibble over the Arctic, though it’s less of a travel draw.

By 2030, solar eclipses amp up with a June 1 annular crossing Europe and Asia, followed by November 25’s total path through Botswana, South Africa, and Australia. These events promise global jaunts, but NASA stresses certified glasses and crowd planning to savor the shadowy splendor safely.

Planning your eclipse escapades

Solar eclipses aren’t just fleeting wonders; they’re invitations to global jaunts that blend science with serendipity. From booking flights to scouting viewpoints, savvy chasers map paths using NASA tools, eyeing weather patterns to dodge cloud cover—because nothing kills the vibe like a rainy totality tease.

Don’t skimp on safety amid the hype—certified eclipse glasses are non-negotiable for partial phases, shielding your peepers from solar fury. Experts urge avoiding homemade filters, channeling that inner astronomer responsibly, so you can savor the shadowy drama without a trip to the eye doc.

Beyond 2030, solar eclipses keep the party going, like 2031’s annular over Africa or 2033’s total in Alaska—plan ahead for these cosmic reruns, joining communities of enthusiasts who turn each event into a festival of wonder and wanderlust.

Eclipse ever after

So, darlings, as solar eclipses continue their shadowy dance through 2033 and beyond—like that March 30 total stunner in Alaska’s wilds—grab your gear, rally your crew, and chase these celestial gems. They’re not just sky shows; they’re life-affirming reminders to look up, stay safe, and let the universe wow you endlessly.