Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark Launches the Great Eclipse Glasses Project

Sigrún Svafa Ólafsdóttir, project manager for educational development accepted the grant on 21 November in Reykjanesbær, Iceland.

Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark has received a 2,7 million ISK grant from the Development Fund of Suðurnes for an ambitious new initiative: Great Eclipse Glasses. The project, run by Sigrún Svafa Ólafsdóttir on behalf of GeoCamp Iceland through our education service contract, marks a major step in preparing the region for the total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026.

The eclipse will be a rare and unforgettable experience for most of us — the kind of celestial event that sparks lifelong curiosity. Around the world, eclipses are used as powerful teaching moments to inspire interest in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. Reykjanes is now taking this opportunity seriously and creatively.

Nine Large-Scale Artworks Across the Geopark

The project centres on installing nine large outdoor artworks shaped like oversized eclipse glasses in every urban area of the Geopark. These installations serve a dual purpose: they function as safe eclipse-viewing stations, and they become striking gathering points on the day of the event. Long after the eclipse has passed, they will remain as public artworks — adaptable spaces that schools, municipalities, cultural institutions and community groups can use in a variety of ways.

A Community-Driven, Creative and Educational Approach

Behind the playful design lies a strong educational aim. The project aligns with the Geopark’s mission to build scientific literacy, strengthen community participation, and offer accessible outdoor learning experiences for young people.

Work is already underway to secure funding for eclipse glasses and a dedicated educational booklet for every primary school student on the Reykjanes Peninsula. In addition, the Geopark is preparing spring visits to all local schools with Sævar Helgi Bragason, who will lead astronomy workshops for children and teachers.

All of this fits within GeoCamp Iceland’s ongoing commitment to STEAM education, science communication and creating meaningful connections between learners, nature and society.

A Partnership Built on Local Strengths

The Great Eclipse Glasses project is being developed in close collaboration with the Municipalities of Suðurnes, Visit Reykjanes, local companies and schools. This cooperation reflects the region’s growing identity as a dynamic hub for science, creativity and sustainability. The grant allows partners to prepare safely and thoughtfully for an event that will draw attention to Reykjanes from around the world.

As we move closer to August 2026, excitement will only grow. GeoCamp Iceland is proud to support this work, contributing our expertise in outdoor learning, youth engagement and science outreach. For the young people living on the Reykjanes Peninsula, the eclipse will be more than a spectacular moment in the sky — it will be a chance to explore big questions, connect with their environment and see themselves within a wider universe.

We look forward to sharing updates as the project develops and as the Great Eclipse Glasses begin to take shape across the landscape.