Sweden to Witness Rare Partial Solar Eclipse and Perseid Meteor Shower on August 12, 2026

On August 12, 2026, Sweden will experience a rare astronomical event combining a partial solar eclipse and the peak of the Perseid meteor shower. The eclipse, visible across the entire country, will cover approximately 80 to 83% of the sun depending on location, marking the most extensive solar eclipse in Sweden since 2015.

The partial eclipse is expected to begin around 7 PM and reach its maximum just before 8 PM, with the northern areas observing the phenomena slightly earlier. In Stockholm, for example, the eclipse starts shortly after 7 PM and peaks at 7:56 PM. Following this, the Perseid meteor shower, renowned for its bright shooting stars, will peak around 11 PM the same night.

Experts emphasize the crucial need for eye protection when viewing the solar eclipse. Robert Cumming, an astronomer at Chalmers University of Technology, advises using proper eclipse glasses or alternative safe viewing methods to prevent eye damage. One innovative suggestion is using a disco ball to project the sun's light safely, creating a captivating display while protecting viewers' eyes.

This event provides Sweden with a unique opportunity to observe these celestial phenomena until a similar eclipse occurs again in 2039 and the next total solar eclipse visible from Sweden will not be until October 2126. The simultaneous appearance of the partial eclipse and meteor shower makes for an exceptional experience for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts across the country.