On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, New Jersey residents will experience a partial solar eclipse. While regions like Greenland, Iceland, and Spain will observe a total eclipse, the Mid-Atlantic states, including New Jersey and the Philadelphia area, will see the moon obscure a portion of the sun during the early afternoon.
The event begins in New Jersey around 1:05 p.m. EDT and concludes between 2:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. The peak of the eclipse occurs locally around 1:46 p.m. Residents should expect clear visibility depending on weather conditions, but the moon will only partially cover the sun throughout the afternoon window.
Safety remains the priority for all observers. Experts from NASA state that protective solar eclipse glasses are mandatory for any person attempting to view the event. Regular sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection against sun damage. If you plan to use cameras, binoculars, or telescopes, you must attach approved solar filters to these devices before attempting to observe the sun.
This partial eclipse provides a brief opportunity for local skywatchers before the event tracks across North America and toward parts of Europe and the Arctic. Following this event, the next total solar eclipse will occur on August 2, 2027, across portions of North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. If you head outside on Wednesday, keep your specialized eye protection handy to ensure a safe viewing experience.