NASA busts August 2 solar eclipse myth: The truth behind viral claims

A viral claim online says the whole world will go dark for six minutes on August 2, 2025 — and that it won’t happen again for 100 years. This misinformation likely comes from confusion over the date of a major celestial event. In reality, the spectacular total solar eclipse is set for August 2, 2027.

There will be no global blackout on August 2, 2025. NASA confirms the “Eclipse of the Century” will occur on August 2, 2027.

According to NASA, on August 2, 2027, the Moon’s shadow will sweep across parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, completely blocking the Sun for up to 6 minutes and 22 seconds — the longest total eclipse visible on land this century. This rare event will be visible in countries including Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia.

By comparison, the April 8, 2024 eclipse in North America lasted about 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

The viral claims likely confuse the 2027 event with the wrong year, exaggerating the phenomenon as a global blackout lasting six minutes. In reality, the path of totality — where the sun is fully covered — is a narrow band about 160 miles wide, crossing roughly 9,462 miles of Earth’s surface. Most of the world, including North America, will see no blackout on August 2, 2025.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the Sun’s light in a narrow path. This turns day into near darkness temporarily and reveals the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona. Total eclipses are rare and can only be seen from specific areas on Earth.

A second total lunar eclipse will take place on September 7, followed by a second partial solar eclipse on September 21. On October 6, the Harvest Moon—the full Moon nearest the autumnal equinox—will be visible after sunset. Then, on November 5, the closest supermoon since 2019 will appear, also after sunset. The year’s celestial events will conclude on December 4 with the Cold Moon—the full Moon closest to the winter solstice—rising post-sunset.

Autumn and Winter Wonders

The world won’t go dark in August 2025. Instead, prepare for a stunning total eclipse on August 2, 2027. This rare event will be a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle for certain regions—so make sure to watch it safely!