On 2 August 2027 the sky will offer one of the astronomical shows more extraordinary of the century: an eclipse total solar that will last well 6 minutes and 23 seconds. A rare eventfascinating and visible in most of the Mediterranean basin, with a darkness never like that prolonged that will not be repeated before the 2114.
A record eclipse: because it will last so much
THE’exceptional duration of the totality is the result of a astronomical combination almost perfect: the earth will be ataphelion (i.e. at the point farthest from the sun), the moon to perigee (closer to the earth, therefore visually larger), and the shadow will travel a trajectory almost equatorialslowing down. These conditions will make a phase of Complete darkness Much longer than the average of solar eclipses, which usually does not exceed 3 minutes.
The shadow route: from Gibraltar to the Red Sea
The eclipse will begin above the Atlantic and cross the Strait of Gibraltar, touching Spain, Morocco, Libya, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, to end in the Indian Ocean. Among the locations that will witness the total darkening:
- Cadiz and Malaga (Spain): over 4 minutes of darkness;
- Tangier and Tetouan (Morocco): in the central band of the eclipse;
- Benghazi (Libya): about 5 minutes of darkness;
- Luxor (Egypt): maximum peak with 6 minutes and 23 seconds;
- Gedda and Mecca (Saudi Arabia): full visibility;
- Somalia and Yemen: among the last to be reached by the shade.
Also in Italythe eclipse will be visible partially, especially in the southern regions and Lampedusa, which will be found very close to the total range.
A global opportunity between science, culture and tourism
The 2027 eclipse will be much more than an astronomical event: millions of people will find themselves observing the same point as heaven, between emotion and wonder. Several initiatives are already scheduled:
- In Luxor, the event will be broadcast live by Karnak’s temples;
- In Cadiz, Spain, scientific workshops for students are planned;
- In Saudi Arabia, packets of astroturism will be organized;
- Some airlines are already planning special flights to follow the shadow in flight.
The eclipse will also be an opportunity to enhance the cultural and natural heritage of the countries involved.
How to prepare for total eclipse
For those who want to experience live experience, it will be important to plan in advance. Here are some expert advice:
- Book accommodation and transport well in advance, especially in Luxor and Gedda;
- Use ISO 12312-2 certified glasses to protect the eyes;
- Arrive at least 24 hours in advance in the observation places;
- Bring water, sun cream and a hat: the event will take place in very hot areas;
Carefully observe the penumbra before totality, which can show variations in light, drop in temperature and unusual reactions of nature.
A phenomenon that fascinates humanity for millennia
The solar eclipses have left a mark in human history, by the Babylonian chronicles of 1375 BC
up to Gospel Which tells the darkness during the crucifixion of Jesus. The eclipse of 2027 will be added to this long tradition, combining science and spirituality in a single, spectacular moment. The advice? Prepare for now. The next so long will be in almost 90 years.