Between the Lines

There was a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 — the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Europe since 1999 (its path ran through Greenland, Iceland, and northern Russia, and touched Spain and Portugal).

At my location, it happened at about 7:20 pm. I went to the highest spot in town to capture the event. I had no special glasses for myself, nor filters for my camera, so I opted to photograph it with my phone instead — but at least I had a tripod.

Unfortunately, one big cloud sat right on the sun’s trajectory as it set on the horizon. But I didn’t completely lose hope — I’m a persistent type. And I was rewarded, at least partially: the clouds actually added some drama.

Then last night, at 9:00 pm, I saw this huge moon. No tripod this time, but I gave it a try anyway — holding my breath helps a little.

Then this morning, early on, the moon was there again, so I tried once more. It was blue and beautiful.

Blue moon, you saw me standing alone

Without a dream in my heart

Without a love of my own

Blue moon

Now I’m no longer alone

Without a dream in my heart

Without a love of my own