A Once-in-a-Century Sky Show Is Coming in 2027
Get ready for an unforgettable celestial event—the solar eclipse of 2027. Billed as the “eclipse of the century,” this extraordinary total solar eclipse will darken skies for up to 6 minutes and 23 seconds on August 2, 2027, making it one of the longest solar eclipses in recent memory.
This rare eclipse won’t be visible across the U.S., but it will sweep across key parts of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, offering millions a front-row seat to a cosmic spectacle. With both solar eclipse and 2027 as headline-worthy keywords, here’s everything you need to know about this astronomical wonder.
What Makes This Solar Eclipse So Special?
Unlike typical eclipses that last just a few minutes, the August 2027 event will offer an unusually long totality—longer than the April 8, 2024 eclipse, which lasted just 4 minutes and 28 seconds. NASA reports that this upcoming eclipse will be the longest total solar eclipse until the year 2114, making it a rare opportunity for scientists and skywatchers alike.
For comparison, the record-holder from recent history was the 1991 eclipse, which reached a jaw-dropping 6 minutes and 53 seconds of totality.
Where Will the Eclipse Be Visible?
The path of totality, where the eclipse will be seen in its full glory, stretches across several countries. Those lucky enough to be within this path will experience total darkness as the moon completely covers the sun. Countries in the direct path include:
Spain
Morocco
Algeria
Tunisia
Gibraltar
Libya
Sudan
Egypt
Saudi Arabia
Yemen
Somalia
Many other regions in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East will catch a partial eclipse.
Can the U.S. See It?
Unfortunately, most of the United States will miss out on this one. However, a partial solar eclipse will be visible in parts of Maine between 5:14 and 5:19 a.m. ET. So if you’re an early riser—or planning a trip abroad—you might just catch a piece of the action.
Not the Next, But Definitely the Most Exciting
Though the 2027 eclipse is getting all the buzz, it’s not the next one on the calendar. Before that, a total solar eclipse is expected on August 12, 2026, passing over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia, and Portugal.
Still, the 2027 eclipse stands out for its impressive duration and wide visibility range. It’s not just another date in the astronomical calendar—it’s a moment of history written in the skies.
Stay tuned to Maple Newswire for more updates on skywatching events, space breakthroughs, and everything under (and around) the sun.
