2026 Brings 4 Eclipses and Dozens of Meteor Showers

Get ready to look up because 2026 is bringing an incredible lineup of celestial events that anyone can enjoy for free.

The year offers four eclipses spread across the globe. On February 17, an annular solar eclipse will sweep across Antarctica, with parts of southern Africa catching a partial view. Then on March 3, a total lunar eclipse will dazzle viewers across western North America, Australia, and Central Asia.

August brings the main event. Iceland and Spain get the best seats for a total solar eclipse on August 12, while the rest of Europe catches a partial show. North America gets another chance too, with parts of Canada and the northeastern United States seeing the moon pass in front of the sun.

Later that month on August 28, a partial lunar eclipse gives South America, Europe, and Africa their turn in the spotlight.

But the eclipses are just the opening act. About a dozen major meteor showers will paint streaks across the night sky throughout the year. The famous Perseids peak on August 13, right after the total solar eclipse. The Geminids follow in mid-December, creating a winter wonderland of shooting stars.

Other standout showers include the Lyrids in April, the Eta Aquariids in May, and the Leonids in November. Each offers hundreds of visible meteors per hour at their peak, visible from backyards and parks everywhere.

Three supermoons round out 2026's sky show. The Wolf Moon already appeared on January 3, but stargazers have two more chances. The Super Beaver Moon lights up November 24, followed by the Super Cold Moon on Christmas Eve, December 24. During supermoons, Earth's nearest neighbor appears up to 10% larger and noticeably brighter than usual.

Why This Inspires

These events remind us that wonder costs nothing and belongs to everyone. You don't need expensive equipment or special access. Just step outside, look up, and share the same view that's amazed humans for thousands of years. In a world that often feels divided, the night sky brings us together under one spectacular show.

Mark your calendars now, because 2026 promises to be a year when looking up beats scrolling down.