In recent days, there has been a widespread online rumor that a “super long total solar eclipse” will occur this weekend, sparking keen interest among star watchers. However, NASA has clarified that the astronomical phenomenon known as the “century eclipse” will actually take place on August 2, 2027, two years from now.
According to the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), this total solar eclipse is expected to last a maximum of 6 minutes and 23 seconds, making it the longest one in decades. During this event, the moon will completely block out the sun, casting a spectacular shadow on the Earth’s surface. Space.com points out that this will also be the longest total solar eclipse since before 2114.
By comparison, the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024 lasted 4 minutes and 28 seconds, already considered rare in terms of duration; while in 1991, there was a solar eclipse that lasted a record-breaking 6 minutes and 53 seconds, making it the longest recorded in modern observation history.
A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs when the moon moves between the sun and the Earth, blocking the sun’s light. If the moon completely obscures the sun, it results in a total solar eclipse; if only part of the sun is blocked, it is known as a partial solar eclipse.
The visible range of the 2027 total solar eclipse will span across parts of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Countries within the path of totality include Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Gibraltar, Libya, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia.
Other surrounding countries will witness a partial solar eclipse.
For observers in the United States, the majority of the regions will not be able to see this total solar eclipse. However, according to the Time and Date website, certain areas in the northeastern state of Maine will be able to witness a partial solar eclipse (partial eclipse) between 5:14 and 5:19 in the morning on that day.
It is worth mentioning that the next total solar eclipse is expected to occur on August 12, 2026, with visibility in parts of Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia, and Portugal.
NASA advises that astronomy enthusiasts planning to witness the “century eclipse” on August 2, 2027, should start planning their trip early and head to the totality path area in order to fully experience this rare spectacle.