Astronomy enthusiasts in Ibiza are preparing to observe a partial solar eclipse this Saturday, March 29th. This phenomenon is produced by the interposition of the Moon between the Sun and the Earth. It is a partial eclipse, that is, it will only be seen as the Moon covers a piece of the sun, approximately 10%, as explained from the Astronomical Association of Ibiza (AAE).
This eclipse is the first of a long and unusual series of solar eclipses of great interest that will be visible from Ibiza and Formentera in the coming years. At august 2026, we will be able to see from our islands the first total solar eclipse since 1905. For a few minutes, it will become night in the middle of the day and we will be able to see the stars before the moon withdraws and the sun shines again. The same phenomenon will be repeated, curiously, in the following year, 2027, while in 2028 we will be able to see an annular eclipse, also of great interest.
how to see it from Ibiza?
This Saturday, March 29, the Agrupación Astronómica de Ibiza (AAE) will open the doors of the Puig des Molins Observatory free of charge for all those interested, without prior reservationto observe the partial solar eclipse that will take place during the morning.
Although this phenomenon can be observed without the need for any instrument (just a pair of approved protective eyewear), on Saturday two telescopes will be installed on the first floor of the observatoryin addition to the one at the dome, to view this eclipse in more detail. Of course, they will be equipped with the necessary protective filters.
The event will start at 10.30 am and will last until 1 pm while the eclipse will start at 10.58 am and will end at 12.30 pm. It is foreseen that the moment of maximum occultation is expected to occur at around 11 a.m.
Tips for viewing a solar eclipse
The Agrupación Astronómica de Ibiza reminds us that it is very important to take into account that one should never observe the sun directlythe sun should never be observed directly with the naked eye, nor with sunglasses, cameras, videos, binoculars or telescopes, unless they have the necessary filters.
The Sun does can be safely observed with approved goggles, such as those that will be available to visitors to the observatory of Puig des Molins this Saturday.
For the full article, please visit Diario de Ibiza website here.