Sky guide · updated August 2026
When is the next solar eclipse? August 2, 2027 — the "eclipse of the century"
The next total solar eclipse is August 2, 2027, and it's a once-in-a-lifetime one: with up to 6 minutes 22 seconds of total darkness, it's the longest total solar eclipse visible from land until the year 2114. Here's exactly where it passes, the best places to watch, and how to see it safely.
When is the next total solar eclipse?
The next total solar eclipse falls on Sunday, August 2, 2027. Totality — the moment the Moon completely covers the Sun — reaches a maximum of about 6 minutes 22 seconds near Luxor, Egypt. For comparison, most total eclipses last only two to three minutes, which is why astronomers are calling this the "eclipse of the century." Nothing longer will be visible from land until 2114.
Where will the 2027 eclipse be visible?
The path of totality — the narrow band where the Sun is fully blocked — first touches land in southern Spain and northern Morocco, then sweeps east across North Africa and the Middle East:
- Spain — Cádiz, Málaga and Gibraltar (4–5 minutes of totality, within reach of Europe's transport network)
- Morocco — Tangier and the north
- Algeria, Tunisia, Libya — long desert stretches with the best weather odds
- Egypt — directly over Luxor's Valley of the Kings and the Great Pyramid of Giza, with the maximum 6m22s near Luxor
- Saudi Arabia — including Jeddah and Mecca
- Somalia & Yemen — before the path leaves land
In total the path of totality crosses roughly 89 million people across 10+ countries. A partial eclipse — where the Moon covers only part of the Sun — will be visible across a much wider area of Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Why the 2027 eclipse is so special
Two things make this eclipse extraordinary. First, the duration: 6+ minutes of totality is exceptional, caused by the eclipse happening when the Moon is near its closest point to Earth and the Sun is near its farthest. Second, the weather: the path runs through August desert skies, so the chance of a clear view is among the best ever for a major eclipse. Long totality plus reliable clear skies is a rare combination — which is why eclipse chasers worldwide are already planning trips.
How to watch a solar eclipse safely
Looking at the Sun can permanently damage your eyes. Never look directly at it without certified eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2) or a proper solar filter — ordinary sunglasses do not work. The only time it's safe to look with the naked eye is during the brief seconds of totality, when the Sun is 100% covered. During every partial phase — and everywhere outside the path of totality — keep your eclipse glasses on.
What else is happening in the sky
Eclipses are just one thing overhead. While you wait for 2027, you can track what's above you right now on the SkyLens live tracker — the ISS, Starlink, and thousands of satellites in real time — or learn to spot them with our guides to seeing the ISS tonight and asteroids passing Earth this week.
Frequently asked questions
When is the next total solar eclipse?
August 2, 2027 — up to 6 min 22 sec of totality, the longest until 2114.
Where will it be visible?
Path of totality: southern Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt (Luxor, Giza), Saudi Arabia (Mecca), Somalia, Yemen. Partial eclipse across much of Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Why is it called the eclipse of the century?
At 6+ minutes it's the longest total solar eclipse over land until 2114, with unusually reliable clear-sky weather along its desert path.
How do I watch it safely?
Use certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses or a solar filter. Only look with the naked eye during full totality — never during partial phases.