Spain will see a partial lunar eclipse in the early hours of August 28, reaching its peak at 06:12 mainland time, when nearly 96% of the Moon's surface will be covered by Earth's shadow. In the Canary Islands, the timing shifts one hour earlier. Western regions, including Galicia and Extremadura, are expected to have the clearest and most complete view because the Moon will remain above the horizon throughout the partial phase.
Unlike the total solar eclipse that drew crowds on August 12, this lunar event requires no protective eyewear. The Instituto Geográfico Nacional says it is safe to observe with the naked eye. In central and eastern Spain, as well as the Balearic Islands and Melilla, the Moon will set before the partial phase ends, limiting visibility. The west, the Canary Islands and Ceuta will see the partial eclipse in full before moonset.
The eclipse occurs as Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that can give the lunar surface a reddish or coppery tint. The effect is less intense than during a total lunar eclipse. Earth's atmosphere scatters sunlight, especially red wavelengths, into the shadow. This will not be a so-called 'blood moon,' but the view may still be striking in the right locations.
The Instituto Geográfico Nacional has launched an interactive tool on its website to help the public track the event. Users can check the exact timing of moonset and the eclipse phases for cities across Spain, making it easier to plan observations. The eclipse's magnitude is listed at 0.93. It will also be visible in parts of western Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas, though the view will vary by region.
Spain has already seen dramatic weather and celestial events this August. Just weeks ago, severe storms and rare meteotsunamis impacted Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, as reported in coverage of the recent extreme weather. The partial lunar eclipse turns attention back to the sky.
Spain will host two more impressive eclipses in the coming years. On August 2, 2027, a total solar eclipse will cross the peninsula in broad daylight, with the best views expected along the southern coast, especially in Cádiz, Málaga, Granada, Almería, Ceuta and Melilla. The event is forecast to last at least six minutes. Another impressive date is January 26, 2028, when an annular solar eclipse, during which the Moon covers the Sun's center and leaves a 'ring of fire,' will sweep from southwest to northeast. It will pass through major cities including Madrid, Seville and Valencia, then end in the Balearic Islands and southern Catalonia. The phenomenon will unfold over roughly two hours, offering unique images across the country.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are visible from anywhere on Earth's night side where the Moon is above the horizon, making them accessible to a much wider audience. For astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking for a memorable night-sky event, the partial lunar eclipse on August 28 offers a rare chance, especially in Spain's western provinces.
Lunar eclipses occur when the Sun, Earth and Moon align, with Earth casting a shadow that can partially or fully obscure the Moon. Atmospheric scattering causes the reddish hue sometimes seen, and also makes sunsets appear red. Total lunar eclipses are less frequent, but partial eclipses like this one still provide a dramatic celestial display. The next total lunar eclipse visible from Spain is not expected for several years, making this August's event particularly noteworthy for skywatchers.
