Arab World Awaits “Eclipse of Century” in 2027
Arab World Awaits “Eclipse of Century” in 2027
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The world is preparing for two major solar eclipses in 2026 and 2027, with astronomers highlighting the exceptional features of both events. The total solar eclipse expected on August 2, 2027, is being described as one of the most important astronomical phenomena of the 21st century for the Arab world.
Astronomers say the 2027 eclipse will be especially significant because its path of totality will pass over several Arab countries, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia. In some areas, total darkness is expected to last for more than six minutes, making it one of the longest total eclipses of the century.
According to astronomical calculations, the Egyptian city of Luxor will lie at the heart of the eclipse’s path. It is expected to witness total darkness for about six minutes and 23 seconds, making it one of the best locations in the world to observe the rare event.
The path of totality will begin in southern Spain near the Strait of Gibraltar, then pass through Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt before extending to Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Somalia. Other countries will be able to view the eclipse partially, with visibility varying by location.
Astronomers attribute the long duration of the 2027 eclipse to a rare combination of orbital factors. The moon will be near perigee, its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger than usual. At the same time, Earth will be near aphelion, its farthest point from the sun, making the sun appear slightly smaller. This will allow the moon to fully cover the sun for a longer period.
In contrast, the 2026 total solar eclipse will mainly pass over parts of Europe, particularly Spain and some northern regions. In the Arab world, it will be visible only as a partial eclipse in limited parts of the Maghreb, including Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. Countries in the Levant and the Gulf will not be able to observe it because the sun will set before the event begins.
