Musk’s SpaceX booked a 17th-century palace to watch Spain’s eclipse

Musk s SpaceX booked a 17th-century palace for historic eclipse viewing

Poinews.com – Musk s SpaceX booked a 17th-century ducal palace in the quiet Spanish town of Lerma to observe one of nature’s most spectacular celestial events. The question has been echoing through the cobblestone streets of this picturesque community south of Burgos in northern Spain for days: will Elon Musk come? The arrival of the aerospace company has transformed this community of more than 2,500 residents, where locals, hospitality workers and tourists are looking towards the Parador, one of Spain’s state-run heritage hotels, trying to work out what is happening behind its doors. The company founded by Musk booked the venue a year and a half ago to watch the total solar eclipse from there this Wednesday.

A rare celestial phenomenon draws global attention

Musk has ultimately not shown up in person, but the SpaceX effect is already being felt across the town: fully booked hotels, dozens of coaches and visitors arriving from different countries, shattering Lerma’s usual calm, sparking a level of excitement rarely seen here. The cause of all this commotion is a total solar eclipse that will plunge parts of Spain into darkness for nearly two minutes on Wednesday, an exceptional event that has not been witnessed on the Iberian Peninsula for more than a century. SpaceX had been planning for the occasion for months, coordinating logistics for their team of specialists.

The aerospace company, founded by Musk in 2002, booked Lerma’s Parador 18 months in advance to secure a prime vantage point from which to observe the event, right along the path of totality, with clear skies and little light pollution. The hotel, a 17th-century ducal palace where Napoleon once spent the night, has closed its doors to the public in recent days to host a private event. Inside, 140 specialists are staying there, including two professors from Berkeley University who will conduct scientific observations during the eclipse.

The SpaceX team has been preparing for this moment for over a year, ensuring they have the best equipment and viewing positions for capturing this once-in-a-century phenomenon.

The possibility of Musk turning up in person spread like wildfire across traditional and social media in recent days. The hype grew, fuelled by reports suggesting the billionaire himself might travel to Lerma to witness the eclipse. Spanish broadcaster COPE has confirmed that Musk is not in the town, though his company’s presence alone has generated significant international interest in this small Castilian community.

Guests at the Parador are technicians and eclipse enthusiasts and, according to the Spanish broadcaster, there are no celebrities among them. His absence, however, has not stopped the billionaire’s name being on the lips of locals and visitors. The mere presence of SpaceX has been enough to put this small town in Burgos province at the centre of attention for a few days, with local businesses reporting unprecedented demand for accommodation and services.

What visitors can expect in Lerma

For those planning to visit Lerma to witness the eclipse, the town has prepared special viewing areas and extended hours for local attractions. The Parador, while hosting its private SpaceX event, has opened limited access to certain areas for eclipse viewing. Local restaurants and hotels have seen bookings surge, with many establishments reporting they are fully booked for the eclipse week. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, as parking spaces are limited and public transportation will be operating on special schedules.

The eclipse itself is expected to begin at approximately 11:00 AM local time, with totality lasting around 1 minute and 50 seconds. SpaceX’s team will be conducting scientific measurements and capturing high-resolution images of the sun’s corona during this brief period of darkness. The company’s investment in this location demonstrates their commitment to both scientific research and public engagement with space-related events.

Frequently Asked Questions About the SpaceX Eclipse Event

When is the total solar eclipse in Spain?

The total solar eclipse will occur on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, with totality lasting approximately 1 minute and 50 seconds. The eclipse will be visible across northern Spain, including the Burgos province where Lerma is located.

Is Elon Musk attending the eclipse in Lerma?

No, Spanish broadcaster COPE has confirmed that Elon Musk is not in the town. However, SpaceX has sent a team of 140 specialists, including university professors and technical experts, to observe and document the event.

Can visitors access the Parador during the eclipse?

While the Parador has closed its doors for a private SpaceX event, limited access to certain areas has been opened for eclipse viewing. Visitors should check with local tourism offices for specific viewing times and access arrangements.

How has the SpaceX booking affected Lerma?

The SpaceX booking has led to fully booked hotels, increased tourism, and heightened international attention for the town. Local businesses report unprecedented demand, and the community is experiencing a level of excitement rarely seen in this quiet Castilian town.