August 12, 2026 marks the date of a solar eclipse. The feast for the eyes will take over most of the globe, including northern U.S., Canada, Europe and northwestern Africa. But rather than a total eclipse (where the moon fully blocks the sun), Boston will get to marvel at a partial eclipse — an experience that is still nothing short of spectacular.
Here’s what to keep in mind before staring in awe at the skyline.
When is the partial solar eclipse on August 12?
According to NASA, the partial eclipse in Boston will begin around midday, remaining in the skies through the midafternoon.
The spectacle will start at 1:01 p.m., with a peak eclipse at 1:55 p.m. Viewers will only get to marvel at the rare event for about an hour, before the partial ends at 2:46 p.m.
Exactly 16% of the moon will block the sun, unlike countries like Barcelona with a full eclipse at 99% coverage or Algeria with 96%. Still, it’s a breathtaking experience that doesn’t come around every day!
Do I need eye protection if I want to watch the eclipse?
Viewers can look directly at the sky without eye protection only during a total eclipse. Because Boston’s eclipse will be partial, it’s imperative that you wear the proper protection. Your daily sunglasses won’t cut it, as you’ll need specific eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers.
And if you have none of those on hand, you can glimpse at the eclipse through a pinhole (more information on the Solar Eclipse Across America website.)
Keep the space exploration going in Boston
The partial eclipse will only last about an hour in the Boston skies, but you can keep the adventure going at DroneArt Show: Space Chase on September 11 and 12 as thousands of drones paint a sweet story of courage and friendship over Ohiri Field.
The “adventure beyond the stars” follows Joey, a lonely boy in 1960s Hawaii, and Freddy, an adorable alien capable of opening wormholes through time. A blend of technology, art, music and nostalgia, DroneArt Show: Space Chase will only be in the Boston skies for two nights, so secure your spot to marvel at the cosmos once more.
