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2027 total solar eclipse darkens sky for up to 6 minutes and 23 seconds in 10 countries

Eclipse solar total
Photo: Eclipse solar total - Photo: Ig0rZh/ Istockphoto.com

Astronomers highlight that the long duration results from the position of Lua at perigee during the alignment. Essa proximity increases the apparent size of the satellite, allowing the umbra — the darkest shadow — to cover Sol for longer. The event is part of the Saros 136 cycle, a series known for prolonged eclipses.

The lunar shadow begins in the subtropical Atlântico ocean and advances east. Ela makes landfall south of Espanha and Marrocos, continues north of África and reaches Oriente Médio before ending in the ocean

Maximum duration and privileged locations

Totality peaks at 6 minutes and 23 seconds near Luxor, at Egito, about 60 kilometers southeast of the city. Outros favorable spots include Tarifa, southern Espanha, and coastal regions of Tunísia.

During these minutes, observers in the central band will see the sky take on twilight tones. The luminosity drops drastically, but the horizon remains visible due to light scattered by the atmosphere.

Locations outside of totality experience partial eclipses. The magnitude varies depending on the proximity to the central band.

Band of totality crosses continents

The trajectory begins at Atlântico and enters Europa through the Gibraltar strait. It then crosses the north of África and penetrates the Arabian peninsula.

Countries affected by totality include Espanha, Marrocos, Argélia, Tunísia, Líbia, Egito, Sudão, The total area covered by the strip reaches approximately 2.5 million square kilometers.

Cities such as Cádiz and Málaga, at Espanha, Tangier, at Marrocos, Benghazi, at

How a total solar eclipse forms

The phenomenon occurs when the Lua comes exactly between the Terra and the Sol during the new moon. The inclined lunar orbit prevents this from happening every month.

In total eclipse, the apparent diameter of Lua exceeds that of Sol, blocking all direct light. Isso differs from the annular one, in which a luminous ring remains, or the partial one, with incomplete coverage.

Lua at perigee increases its apparent size, favoring longer eclipses. Esse factor explains the exceptional extent of the 2027 event.

Observation conditions and precautions

Observers must wear eclipse glasses or solar projectors during partial phases. In totality, it is safe to look directly.

Weather influences visibility. Regiões, like Egito and Líbia, have a history of clear skies in August, increasing the chances of success.

Recent publications warn against misinformation. Nem the entire planet will be dark, and the eclipse is not the only one in 2027 — a partial one occurs in September.

Cycle Saros and event rarity

The Saros 136 cycle repeats similar eclipses every 18 years and 11 days. Essa series produces prolonged totalities on certain occasions.

Astronomers predict that a longer eclipse on land will only occur in 2114. The one in 2027 stands out as a unique opportunity in the current century.

Next steps for observers

Planning trips for the totality range requires advance reservation. Locais like Luxor attract increasing interest from enthusiasts.

Equipment such as binoculars and cameras with filters help to record the phenomenon. The solar corona reveals details of the solar atmosphere visible only at these moments.