\n Artist\u2019s impression of asteroid 2024 YR4, the object behind NASA\u2019s latest 2026 warning to Spain.
\nCredit : www.esa.int <\/p>\n
Spain has received an unusual heads-up from NASA<\/a>, and it\u2019s not the kind of update that usually lands on the desks of government ministries. The agency has alerted Spanish institutions to two major astronomical events coming in 2026 \u2013 one expected to draw crowds of excited sky-watchers, and another that scientists are treating with far more caution.<\/p>\n NASA is not sounding an alarm, but the message is unmistakable: Spain should be paying attention.<\/p>\n A once-in-a-century total eclipse will cross Spain from coast to coast<\/p>\n The first event is a spectacular one. On August 12 2026, a total solar eclipse<\/a> will sweep across the country, cutting a dramatic path from A Coru\u00f1a all the way to Palma, passing through cities such as Oviedo, Le\u00f3n, Bilbao, Zaragoza and Val\u00e8ncia. For astronomers, it is the sort of moment that comes around once in a lifetime \u2013 literally. It will be the first total eclipse visible from mainland Spain in more than 100 years.<\/p>\n Most Read on Euro Weekly News<\/p>\n Professional observatories, amateur astronomers and thousands of curious spectators are already gearing up for it. The Spanish National Geographic Institute has encouraged anyone planning to watch the eclipse to follow official guidance, as interest is expected to surge in the months leading up to August.<\/p>\n The phenomenon itself carries no danger, but authorities are already mindful of what happens when large numbers of people flock to rural areas in a short window of time: heavy traffic, crowded viewing spots and potential safety risks if people ignore proper eye-protection advice.<\/p>\n Still, there\u2019s little doubt the eclipse will be one of the biggest scientific attractions of 2026 \u2013 a rare moment where the entire country stops to look up at the sky.<\/p>\n The second event is far less scenic: A \u201cpotentially dangerous\u201d asteroid will pass near earth<\/p>\n