Millions of people across Spain and Iceland prepared to witness a total solar eclipse on Wednesday, with many carrying protective glasses and travelling to locations offering clear views of the rare celestial event.

Human fascination with eclipses dates back centuries. Historically, the sudden disappearance of daylight was often interpreted as an omen, a cosmic battle or a manifestation of divine power.

Today, skywatchers gather for a different reason: to experience the eerie spectacle as daylight briefly fades into twilight, temperatures can drop and some animals fall silent while the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun.

“I hope that tonight will see the emergence of a wonderful generation of astrophysicists,” Juan Cruz, Spain’s Secretary of State for Science told Reuters.
“It’s such a special moment.”

Spanish authorities expected up to six million visitors, mainly in rural areas along the eclipse’s path across northern Spain and the Balearic Islands, Cruz said.

The eclipse is expected to be particularly spectacular in Spain, where it will be followed shortly afterwards by sunset, adding to the appeal of the rare celestial event.

In Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, eclipse glasses have been sold out for days as the country prepares to welcome up to 80,000 visitors for the rare celestial event.

The Moon’s shadow is expected to reach Iceland’s westernmost coast at about 5:44 p.m. (1744 GMT) before moving rapidly eastward. Totality will last as long as 2 minutes and 13 seconds in the far west, although most cities will experience a shorter period of darkness.

Authorities have warned of heavy traffic and urged spectators to arrive early at viewing locations as large crowds gather to watch the eclipse.