Moneycontrol PRO
Swing Trading 101
Swing Trading 101

The longest solar eclipse in 100 years will turn day into night: Know tdate, time and where it will be visible

A rare total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027 will plunge parts of Earth into extended darkness, offering scientists and skywatchers an unusually long cosmic display few will ever witness again.

January 17, 2026 / 18:12 IST
The Sun Will Disappear for Minutes: Astronomers Lock in Date for the Longest Solar Eclipse in 100 Years (Image: Canva)
Snapshot AI
The August 2, 2027 total solar eclipse will be among the longest of the century, with over six minutes of totality in parts of Europe, Africa and the Middle East. While India will see only a partial eclipse, the event offers major scientific and public interest, allowing rare observation of the Sun’s corona and showcasing the precision of celestial mechanics.

Skywatchers worldwide will witness an exceptionally long total solar eclipse, as the Moon fully covers the Sun, delivering rare prolonged darkness across multiple continents during a historic celestial alignment.

Astronomers say the August 2, 2027 eclipse ranks among longest this century. At peak totality, darkness will last up to 6 minutes. Scientists describe such duration as extremely uncommon in modern times. Observers near Luxor, Egypt, will experience the longest darkness. The extended totality has prompted global scientific and public interest. Space agencies and observatories are preparing extensive observation campaigns.

Why the 2027 Solar Eclipse Matters

According to NASA data and astronomical calculations, eclipse duration depends on distance. During this event, the Moon appears slightly larger than usual. This allows longer coverage of the Sun’s surface. The alignment creates ideal conditions for prolonged totality. Researchers value these moments for studying the Sun’s corona. Public fascination also grows due to dramatic visual changes.

Where Totality Will Be Seen

The path of totality will cross Southern Europe first. It then stretches across North Africa and Middle Eastern regions. Countries include Spain, Gibraltar, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya. Egypt will witness the longest and clearest totality phase. Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Somalia also lie under darkness. Parts of Atlantic and Indian oceans complete the path. Several major cities will experience complete solar coverage.

Cities such as Cadiz, Gibraltar and Tangiers lie directly beneath totality. Benghazi, Luxor and Jeddah will also experience full eclipse. These locations expect increased tourism and scientific gatherings. Authorities are preparing for large international visitor numbers. Hotels and transport services anticipate heightened demand.

Visibility and Impact in India

In India, the eclipse will not reach totality. Observers will see only a partial solar eclipse. A portion of the Sun will remain visible throughout. Astronomers advise using certified solar viewing equipment. Direct viewing without protection remains unsafe at all times.

During totality elsewhere, daylight will briefly resemble twilight. Stars and bright planets may become visible overhead. Temperatures could drop slightly during the event. Animals may display unusual behaviour during sudden darkness. The Sun’s corona will appear as a luminous halo.

Scientists say the eclipse poses no danger to Earth. Instead, it offers valuable opportunities for solar research. The 2027 eclipse is expected to inspire global fascination. Many describe it as a once in a generation spectacle.

first published: Jan 17, 2026 06:12 pm

Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

Subscribe to Tech Newsletters

  • On Saturdays

    Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.

  • Daily-Weekdays

    Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.

Advisory Alert: It has come to our attention that certain individuals are representing themselves as affiliates of Moneycontrol and soliciting funds on the false promise of assured returns on their investments. We wish to reiterate that Moneycontrol does not solicit funds from investors and neither does it promise any assured returns. In case you are approached by anyone making such claims, please write to us at grievanceofficer@nw18.com or call on 02268882347