Solar eclipse of August 2, 2027 set to be longest total in the 21st century
On 2 August 2027 a total solar eclipse will reach a maximum duration of 6 minutes 23 seconds, making it the longest total eclipse observable from land in the 21st century. The Moon will pass close enough to Earth to cast a shadow about 258 km wide that will sweep a 15 000‑km‑long path across the globe.
The central line will cross southern Spain (including Tarifa), Gibraltar, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt – with the longest totality near Luxor – as well as Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Somalia, before moving over the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Astronomers note that observers within the narrow band will be able to see classic eclipse phenomena such as Baily’s beads and the “diamond ring” effect.
Safety experts stress the need for certified eclipse glasses or solar filters for any partial phases. In addition to scientific interest, astrologers have linked the event to a range of zodiac‑sign forecasts, describing it as a time for personal transformation and new beginnings across all twelve signs.