Don’t miss the century’s most dazzling total solar eclipse
August 2, 2027 solar eclipse is one the most remarkable astronomical events of the century
The world will go dark for six (6) breathtaking minutes during a once-in-a-century solar eclipse on August 2, 2027.
So if you’re planning to witness an eclipse, mark your calendars for August August 2, 2027.
This event is the one to see — a convergence of science, spectacle, and history rarely matched in our lifetime.
What truly makes this eclipse extraordinary — and rare — are its remarkable duration, broad viewing path spanning multiple countries and continents, and a fortunate lineup of astronomical circumstances.
Why the August 2, 2027 total solar eclipse is exceptionally rare
The total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027, stands out as one of the most remarkable astronomical events of the century.
Except for a specific and brief period of time during a total solar eclipse, you must never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection, such as safe solar viewing glasses (eclipse glasses).
Exceptionally rare solar eclipse
Most total solar eclipses offer viewers just two to three minutes of total darkness.
The August 2027 eclipse, by contrast, will provide up to 6 minutes and 23 seconds of totality at its maximum — making it the longest eclipse visible from land between 1991 and 2114.
This extended period allows for an unmatched opportunity to observe the Sun’s ethereal corona and experience an eerie midday darkness.
How is such a long totality achieved?
This unusually lengthy totality is the result of several rare alignments:
Earth at Aphelion: Earth will be at its farthest from the Sun (aphelion), making the Sun appear slightly smaller in our sky.
Moon at Perigee: The Moon will be very near its closest point to Earth (perigee), so it appears larger and can cover the Sun more completely and for a longer duration.
Equatorial Path: The shadow's path crosses near the equator, where Earth's surface moves fastest relative to the Moon’s shadow, slowing the shadow’s apparent speed and increasing the duration of totality for observers on the ground.
The Path: A broad corridor across continents
The eclipse’s path of totality — where the Moon completely blocks the Sun — will stretch over three continents, beginning over the Atlantic Ocean and sweeping eastward.
The corridor of totality will be notably wide, about 258km across at maximum, providing millions of people with a chance to witness this spectacular event.
Countries in the path of totality
Southern Spain (cities like Cadiz and Malaga)
Gibraltar
Northern Morocco (Tangier)
Northern Algeria (Oran, Tlemcen)
Northern Tunisia (Sfax)
Northeast Libya (Benghazi)
Central Egypt (Luxor, Sohag — site of maximum duration)
Northeast Sudan
Southwest Saudi Arabia (Jeddah, Mecca)
Western Yemen (Sana’a)
Northeast Somalia
British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago).
Even outside this corridor, a partial eclipse will be visible across vast regions of Europe, Africa, and western Asia.
When and where to watch
Southern Spain: Totality between ~1:30pm and 2:00pm CEST
Libya and Egypt: Peak totality between ~2:00pm and 2:30pm EET, with Luxor and Sohag experiencing the full 6-minute-plus spectacle.
Ideal viewing locations are Egypt and Libya, known for their clear and dry August skies, maximising your chance for unobstructed viewing.
Visual: Understanding the eclipse’s shadow
During a solar eclipse, the umbra is the Moon’s central, darkest shadow —where totality is visible. The broader, lighter penumbra surrounds it, where a partial eclipse can be seen.
On August 2, 2027, the umbra’s wide track covers the totality corridor described above, while the penumbra stretches for thousands of kilometres, showering much of Europe, Africa, and Asia with a deep partial eclipse.
Why this eclipse is so special
Longest totality visible on land this century
Extensive international reach — visible across three continents
Astronomically rare alignment of Earth and Moon in optimal positions
High likelihood of clear weather in some key regions (notably Egypt and Libya)
Rich historic sites (like Luxor) under the path, promising an unforgettable setting for eclipse chasers.
For astronomers and skywatchers, such perfect conditions come only once— or maybe twice — in a lifetime.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
