Scientists to Study Solar Eclipse Effects in Mosfellsbær
A team of American scientists will travel to Iceland this August to investigate how the total solar eclipse on 12 August affects Earth’s atmosphere over Iceland.
The project, funded by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), involves researchers from the University of Idaho and the University of Kentucky. The team is building on previous eclipse studies conducted in North America during the 2023 and 2024 solar eclipses.
According to Icelandic astronomy educator Sævar Helgi Bragason, often known as Storm-Sevar, researchers are particularly interested in how a total solar eclipse influences atmospheric conditions. Their findings could improve understanding of the upper atmosphere and contribute to more accurate weather forecasting.
One well-documented effect of a solar eclipse is a noticeable drop in temperature as the Moon temporarily blocks the Sun’s radiation. To measure these changes, scientists plan to launch weather balloons equipped with atmospheric instruments during the eclipse.
Measuring Atmospheric Waves
During previous eclipse studies in the United States, researchers detected atmospheric gravity waves—disturbances that travel through the atmosphere when air masses are displaced. Scientists believe similar phenomena may have occurred during earlier eclipses, although further confirmation is needed.
The Icelandic observations are expected to take place near Tungubakki in Mosfellsbær, where conditions are considered ideal for gathering data. The research team hopes local residents will take interest in the project and enjoy the rare celestial event.
The team consists of approximately ten researchers and draws heavily on experience gained during recent eclipse campaigns in the United States. Similar scientific studies have also been conducted in Spain.
Sævar Helgi emphasized the rarity of the occasion:
“I hope people realize how unique this opportunity is. It will be a truly memorable experience.”
A Rare Celestial Event
The total solar eclipse will cross the Arctic region on 12 August and will be visible across western Iceland, including the Reykjavík metropolitan area.
The longest duration of totality in Iceland will occur at Látrabjarg in the Westfjords, where darkness will last approximately 2 minutes and 13 seconds. In Reykjavík, totality is expected to last about 59 seconds.
The eclipse’s path of totality will extend from the North Atlantic across parts of Europe, eventually ending in Spain. The next total solar eclipse visible from Iceland is not expected until 2196, making this a once-in-a-lifetime event for most Icelanders.
Source: Morgunblaðið
