Skywatchers have a busy month ahead in August 2026, with NASA identifying several major astronomical events, including solar and lunar eclipses and a prominent meteor shower.
The month begins with the Last Quarter Moon on August 5. On August 12, a total solar eclipse will track across northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain, and a portion of Portugal. While the total eclipse is limited to those regions, observers in parts of the United States—ranging from Alaska to North Carolina—will experience a partial solar eclipse. NASA emphasizes that safety is paramount, advising the use of certified solar viewers and warning against using standard sunglasses or unfiltered optical equipment.
Following the solar eclipse, the Perseid meteor shower is expected to reach its peak on the night of August 12 into the early hours of August 13. Because the peak coincides with a New Moon, dark skies will provide optimal viewing conditions. The Perseids occur annually as Earth moves through debris left by Comet Swift-Tuttle. NASA recommends finding a dark, open location and allowing eyes to adjust for 30 minutes to spot the meteors, which will appear to originate from the constellation Perseus.
Between August 14 and 16, Venus will reach its greatest eastern elongation, appearing as a bright object in the western sky shortly after sunset. Telescopic observations during this time will reveal the planet in a phase resembling a half-lit moon.
The month concludes with a partial lunar eclipse occurring between August 27 and 28. Visible from North and South America, as well as parts of Europe and Africa, the event will see approximately 93% of the Moon's diameter enter Earth's umbra. Unlike solar eclipses, this event is safe to view without specialized equipment, though binoculars or telescopes may enhance the view of the Moon's darkened, copper-tinted surface.
Source: NASA
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