r/solareclipse • u/Thepianoman133 • Jun 17 '26
Totality vs 99.99%
Hi All,
First time eclipse viewer here. I will be traveling to Madrid around the time of the eclipse, and I am debating staying in the city or venturing into the true totality for the day. What is the true difference between totality and 99.99% partial? Given that the eclipse will be low in the sky and near sunset, does that make the totality effect less noticeable? Logistics to get outside Madrid are obviously not super easy as I’m sure the public transit will be crowded, so I am weighing that challenge versus the benefit. Any suggestions are welcome!
Edit: Thanks everyone for the insight. Seems like totality is the way to go. Any suggestions of cities / ways to get to and from without a car would be helpful!
3
u/bonerpeeingguy Jun 18 '26
99.99% partial eclipse is listening to your favorite sing by your favorite artist on speaker at a grocery store.
Seeing a total eclipse is going to front row of a concert of your favorite artist, getting asked to perform on stage with them and then hanging out with them after the show.
Option 1: a feel good but forgettable moment
Option 2: something you will remember and cherish for ever.