Khaberni - The Earth is preparing for a rare celestial event that will be witnessed by several countries around the world, as a total solar eclipse crosses extensive areas across three continents, providing its inhabitants with one of the longest moments of darkness in modern times.
On August 2, 2027, an exceptional astronomical phenomenon will sweep the Earth's skies as a rare total solar eclipse crosses parts of three continents, giving residents one of the longest experiences of darkness for over 100 years, where the total eclipse will last for six minutes and 23 seconds, which is the longest period of darkness that can be observed from land between 1991 and 2114.
This unique event presents an opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to witness the sun disappearing behind the moon for a longer period than usual, as most eclipses typically last no more than three minutes.
This time, there will be an exceptional opportunity for astronomers to observe the solar corona with greater clarity, and for viewers to enjoy moments of stillness and wonder in complete darkness during daylight hours.
According to space.com, the path of the total eclipse begins over the Atlantic Ocean before moving eastward, passing through: southern Spain, northern Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt (especially Luxor, which will witness more than six minutes of total darkness), Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia.
The shadow of the moon will be about 258 kilometers wide, providing a broad band for observation in areas known for clear skies and dry weather during August, especially in Libya and Egypt.
The peak timing varies depending on the region; in southern Spain, the total eclipse is expected between 1:30 and 2:00 PM Central European Time, while it reaches peak in Libya and Egypt between 2:00 and 2:30 PM Eastern European Time.
India will almost miss this phenomenon, except for very limited areas that may experience a weak partial eclipse just before sunset.
Why is this eclipse considered exceptional?
The event coincides with a series of rare astronomical factors that have extended its duration unprecedentedly, the most notable being that the Earth will be at its furthest point from the sun, making the sun's disk appear smaller, which helps increase the duration of the total eclipse.
Also, the moon will be at its closest point to the Earth (perigee), appearing larger in size, and the path of the eclipse will pass near the equator, which slows down the movement of the moon's shadow over the Earth's surface and prolongs the duration of darkness.
With all these conditions coming together, the 2027 eclipse is expected to be one of the most exciting astronomical phenomena of the century, both in terms of duration and the breadth of viewing areas, where millions of people will enjoy amazing moments of complete darkness in broad daylight.
