Epic 2027 total solar eclipse will last over 6 minutes in Egypt

The total solar eclipse occurring on August 2, 2027, will be one of the longest of the 21st century, lasting 6 minutes and 22 seconds at its peak. It will sweep across various regions including southern Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt. Notably, Luxor, Egypt is prime for viewing as it experiences a totality of approximately 6 minutes and 20 seconds. The path of the eclipse will also pass through parts of the Middle East and East Africa, including countries like Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia, before concluding near the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean. Among the notable locations along the eclipse path where viewers can expect significant totality durations are Tarifa, Spain, Martil Beach in Morocco, Sfax and Kerkennah Islands in Tunisia, and Siwa Oasis. The eclipse garners significant attention not just for its length, but also for the relatively clear skies predicted in Egypt, which has a 1% chance of cloud cover, making it an ideal spot for eclipse chasers. In contrast, Saudi Arabia and Yemen might experience higher chances of clouds or dust storms that could obscure visibility. Experts note that while the total eclipse of 6 minutes 22 seconds is remarkable, it is important to understand the circumstances contributing to such lengths. The phenomenon occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its elliptical orbit while the moon's shadow lands near the equator. This event is part of a series of spectacular total solar eclipses in the upcoming years, thus inciting excitement among astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts alike.