The Longest Total Solar Eclipse of 2027: Mark the Date

Jakarta — People around the world will be able to witness a total solar eclipse, described as the eclipse of the century, on 2 August 2027. The event is particularly remarkable because it differs significantly from other eclipses.

Next year’s total solar eclipse will have the longest period of totality, reaching six minutes and 23 seconds at its peak, according to Space, as cited on Sunday (11 October 2026).

The next time a total eclipse reaches a similarly long peak duration will be on 12 August 2045, when it is expected to last six minutes and six seconds near Florida.

This means the Sun will disappear from view for six minutes next year. Space also notes that a partial solar eclipse will be visible for 80 minutes before and after totality.

The eclipse will cover a wide area, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean across southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

Its path will be up to 258 kilometres wide, passing over Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Somalia and the Chagos Islands.

Space reports that Luxor, Egypt, will be a prime location for viewing the total eclipse, with clear skies expected. Other possible destinations include Spain, Morocco and Algeria.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes across the face of the Sun and appears slightly larger, completely covering the Sun’s disc.

Viewers are warned not to look directly at the Sun with the naked eye during the partial phases. Use solar eclipse glasses designed for viewing the Sun during the event.