Eclipse Viewing

On 12 August, at 17:47 UTC, the Moon passes fully in front of the Sun over the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. For a little over two minutes, day turns to night. This has not happened in Iceland since 1954, and it will not happen again until 2196. Totality is the reason we are all gathered on this peninsula, and everything about the day is built around it.

Eclipse Viewing Glasses

Free for everyone: certified eclipse viewing glasses will be shared with every attendee at wristband pickup. Wear them any time part of the Sun is visible, and only remove them during totality, when the Sun is fully covered.

The Timeline of Totality

≈ 16:44

First Contact — partial eclipse begins. Barely noticeable to the eye. Glasses on from here.

≈ 17:44

Second Contact — totality begins. The only moment it is safe to remove your glasses.

≈ 17:45

Maximum eclipse — the peak of totality over Hellissandur.

≈ 17:47

Third Contact — totality ends. Glasses back on immediately.

≈ 18:44

Fourth Contact — partial eclipse ends. The eclipse is over.

Totality in Hellissandur lasts about 2 minutes 7 seconds.

The Main Stage Pauses for Totality

As totality nears, the Main Stage will pause. This moment is not one we want competing with a set. When the Moon fully covers the Sun, we ask everyone, wherever they are on-site, to look up.

The Eclipse Meditation Symphony

For those who want to mark totality with ceremony, the Eclipse Meditation Symphony takes place in the Cosmic Connection garden. Live musicians and a choir guide participants through a 45-minute journey into the eclipse, alongside a ritual performance drawing on Icelandic mythological traditions. The experience builds to a silent climax as totality forms overhead, then closes with sound healing and moves into a dance set.

Find What Fits You

Totality can be experienced however feels right. Some will want the ceremony in Cosmic Connection. Some will want a quiet spot on the black sand or lava fields, away from any stage. Some have booked a Side Quest, like the totality viewing at Svöðufoss waterfall. There is no wrong way to watch the Sun disappear. We encourage everyone to find the experience that fits them best, and to be in place well before totality begins.