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Salou will be one of the best places in Catalonia to observe the total solar eclipse on 12 August, an exceptional astronomical event that will transform the landscape for just over one minute. Totality will begin at 8:29:44 p.m., reach its maximum at 8:30:18 p.m., and end at 8:30:52 p.m., lasting a total of 1 minute and 8 seconds.
Before the main event, the partial eclipse will begin at 7:28:43 p.m., when the Moon starts to cover the Sun's disc. As the eclipse progresses, daylight will gradually fade, taking on an unusual dim appearance and colour. A drop in temperature and, in some cases, a slight change in wind direction may also be noticeable.
Just seconds before totality, observers will be able to witness some of the eclipse's most spectacular phenomena. These include Baily's Beads, caused by sunlight shining through the Moon's valleys and craters, and the famous Diamond Ringeffect, which occurs when only a single bright point of the Sun remains visible before it is completely covered.
During totality, daylight will suddenly resemble twilight. The sky will become dark enough for several planets and the brightest stars to be visible. Around the Moon's black disc, observers will see the solar corona—the Sun's outer atmosphere—which can only be seen during a total solar eclipse and is considered one of nature's most breathtaking sights.
This sudden change in light can also affect animal behaviour. Birds may stop singing, nocturnal insects may begin their activity, and some animals may react as though night has fallen.
Another remarkable phenomenon will be the ring of light visible all around the horizon, while the observation point itself remains immersed in the darkness of totality.
This year's eclipse has one particularly striking feature: it will occur very close to sunset, which is expected at 8:34 p.m.As a result, the Sun will be very low above the west-northwest horizon, at an altitude of only about 3.5 degrees. For the best viewing experience, it will be essential to choose a location with a completely unobstructed horizon, free from buildings, trees or mountains.
Experts also remind the public that it is only safe to look directly at the Sun without eye protection during the 1 minute and 8 seconds of totality. Before and after that brief period, ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses must be worn, as looking at the Sun without proper protection can cause severe and permanent eye damage.
