3th Contest of Astronomy in all Seasons: Seize the day, Seize the year
Dates: the contest is open from April 1 to October 31, 2026.
All participants will receive a certificate of participation once the contest has ended.
Once the contest ends, EAAE will hold a Closing Online Conference related to the theme this year’s edition: Enjoying the Solar Eclipse of 2026.
Stay tuned for information about the Closing Online Conference.
Presentation and guide of the Eclipse 2026 Contest
A total solar eclipse is not a very frequent astronomical phenomenon since for it to occur there must be an exact alignment between the Moon in its new phase, the Sun and the observer on Earth. But the eccentricity of the Moon's orbit does not allow its apparent size to always be sufficient to completely cover the Sun.
If to the fact that the Moon's orbit around the Sun is not perfectly circular, we add the fact that its orbit has an inclination of 5.24 degrees with respect to the Earth's orbit, this makes solar eclipses rare and total eclipses even less frequent, in which the Moon completely covers the Sun.
The August 2026 Solar Eclipse is Total. This means that from a narrow strip on the Earth's surface, called the strip of totality, the Moon completely covers the Sun. Outside the strip of totality, but where the phenomenon is visible, the eclipse is partial. Totality only occurs along a narrow path on the Earth's surface.
Figure 1.Map of the total solar eclipse of the places from where it will be visible on Earth on August 12, 2026, either in its entirety or partially.
Thus, Observers within the lunar shadow cone, which will be at most 270 km wide and stretch over a path approximately 15,000 km long across the Earth's surface, will be able to witness the total eclipse. Totality lasts longest for those near the center of this strip, up to a maximum of 2 minutes and 18 seconds, while the full duration of the eclipse (from start to finish) is about 264 minutes.
Although eclipses are natural phenomena, in some ancient and modern cultures there are superstitions that are difficult to understand in the 21st century. They explain them as supernatural causes and are sometimes considered bad omens. A total eclipse can be terrifying for people unaware of its astronomical explanation, as the Sun appears to disappear during the day and the sky darkens in a matter of minutes.
Warning: Looking directly at the Sun can cause permanent eye damage or blindness, so using special eye protection or indirect viewing techniques to observe a solar eclipse is absolutely essential.
How to Participate
This contest is open to everyone, regardless of age or location. Participation is designed to be safe and inclusive, acknowledging that:
Observing a solar eclipse can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Therefore, we do not require participants to photograph the eclipse themselves. The eclipse is not visible from all locations on Earth, so alternative participation methods allow anyone, anywhere, to join.
Participation Modalities
Participants can choose from the following categories:
1. Arts and Creativity
Create a drawing, painting, or digital artwork inspired by the solar eclipse. Use your research on this astronomical phenomenon to make your work both imaginative and informed. A brief explanation of your piece (one paragraph) is encouraged.
2. Writing & Storytelling
Write a report, story, or reflection on the total solar eclipse. Possible topics include:
· The science behind eclipses
· Historical stories, myths, or superstitions from different cultures
· Your personal interpretation or creative story inspired by an eclipse
Essays should not exceed 4 pages, including images if used.
3. Photography
Participants can submit up to 4 photographs. These may be:
· Photos taken during the eclipse by the participant (with proper safety precautions)
· Images sourced from others, provided you include a one-page description detailing:
o The origin of the images
o The specific eclipse captured (date and location)
o Your personal reflection on the eclipse
4. Digital or Multimedia Work
Create a short digital project (animation, video, slideshow, or interactive experience) lasting up to 4 minutes. Suggested ideas:
· A short animated explanation of the eclipse mechanics
· A video storytelling a myth, legend, or historical account of an eclipse
· A virtual simulation or time-lapse showing the movement of the Moon's shadow on Earth
· Any creative multimedia interpretation that helps others understand or experience a solar eclipse
5. Software or Interactive Application
Develop a small software program, app, or interactive experience related to the solar eclipse. Possibilities include
· An educational tool to explain how solar eclipses occur
· A simulation showing the path of totality and eclipse timing for different locations
· A game that teaches players about the Sun, Moon, and Earth system
· Any interactive project that combines learning and creativity
For both digital/multimedia work and software submissions, include a brief description (1–2 paragraphs) explaining the concept, purpose, and how users should interact with your project.
When is the deadline for entries?
The deadline for all entries is 23h59 CET on October 31, 2026.
How do I submit my entry?
All submissions should be made on the Astronomy in all Seasons 2026 Submission Form: https://forms.gle/71qWZpeW4YfGufK69