Solar Eclipse on August 2: Will it really bring ‘6 minutes of darkness’ in the world? NASA answers after viral buzz |

Solar eclipses have fascinated humanity for thousands of years. Historically, eclipses were often seen as omens, influencing myths and legends. Today, there are opportunities for scientific research, including studying the Sun’s corona and testing astronomical theories. Because total eclipses are rare and visible only along narrow paths, many enthusiasts travel thousands of miles to experience one. A viral rumour spreading across social media has sparked panic and confusion, claiming that the world will face total darkness on August 2, 2025, due to a rare total solar eclipse. Some posts even suggest such an event will not happen again for another hundred years, adding to public fear and curiosity. These sensational claims have quickly gone viral, leaving many questioning whether an extraordinary cosmic event is imminent.However, NASA and leading astronomers have debunked the rumour, confirming that no total solar eclipse is scheduled for that date. The next major total solar eclipse will actually occur on August 2, 2027, an event already being hailed as the “eclipse of the century” due to its record-breaking duration.The August 2, 2027 eclipse is expected to draw massive crowds due to its exceptional length and wide path of visibility.

NASA confirms: No total solar eclipse on August 2, 2025

Despite the alarming nature of the viral claim, NASA has confirmed that no total solar eclipse is scheduled for August 2, 2025.The misinformation appears to stem from confusion between different solar eclipse events. While eclipses are relatively common, total solar eclipses are rare and visible only from specific locations on Earth. Claiming that the entire Earth will be in darkness is scientifically impossible.Instead of a total eclipse, there will be a partial solar eclipse on September 21, 2025. In a partial eclipse, the Moon covers only a portion of the Sun, resulting in a crescent-shaped Sun but not complete darkness.The September 2025 eclipse will be visible only from specific parts of Africa, Europe, and southern Asia. Other regions, including North America and most of South America, will not see any eclipse at all.

Why August 2 2027 eclipse is being called the ‘eclipse of the century’

The viral claim likely confused the August 2, 2025 rumor with the actual total solar eclipse happening on August 2, 2027. This particular eclipse is exceptional because it will last 6 minutes and 23 seconds—making it the longest total solar eclipse visible from land since 1991. Most total solar eclipses last only 2 to 4 minutes, so this is a rare astronomical phenomenon.Areas that will experience the 2027 total eclipseThe eclipse will be visible along a 160-mile-wide path stretching 9,462 miles, crossing 11 countries:

People within this narrow path will witness day turning into night, while areas outside it will see only a partial eclipse or none at all.

Why will the 2027 eclipse last so long

The unusually long duration of the 2027 eclipse is the result of three astronomical factors working together:During August, Earth is near its aphelion—the point where it is farthest from the Sun in its orbit. As a result, the Sun appears slightly smaller in the sky, making it easier for the Moon to cover it completely for a longer period.The Moon will be at or near perigee, its closest point to Earth, which makes it appear slightly larger in the sky. A larger apparent size of the Moon means it can cover the Sun entirely for a longer duration.The eclipse’s path lies close to Earth’s equator, where the relative motion of the Moon’s shadow across Earth is slower compared to higher latitudes. This slower movement prolongs the time the eclipse is visible at any given location.These three factors combined will produce a historic eclipse event that won’t be matched in duration until well after 2100.

What happens during a total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse is one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena.Key stages:

The Sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, becomes visible—a sight usually hidden by sunlight. Bright stars and planets may be visible in the daytime sky. The “diamond ring” effect and Baily’s beads (beads of sunlight shining through the Moon’s valleys) are visible during moments before and after totality.

Partial solar eclipse in September 2025: What should you expect

Although the viral rumour exaggerated the 2025 eclipse, the partial eclipse happening on September 21, 2025, is still worth watching. In a partial solar eclipse, the Moon only blocks part of the Sun’s disk. This creates a crescent-shaped Sun but does not cause complete darkness. The sky remains bright, although sunlight may appear dimmer.Viewing safety: Even during a partial eclipse, looking directly at the Sun is dangerous. Special solar viewing glasses or certified eclipse viewers must be used to protect your eyes from damage.

Solar Eclipse August 2 related FAQs

Will the world go dark on August 2, 2025?No. NASA has confirmed there is no total solar eclipse on that date. Only a partial eclipse on September 21, 2025, will occur, and it will not cause darkness.Where will the August 2, 2027 eclipse be visible?It will be visible in a path crossing Spain, North Africa, and the Middle East. Only areas within the path will see complete totality.Will the August 2, 2027 eclipse be safe to watch with the naked eye?Only during the brief totality phase is it safe. For all other times, use eclipse glasses or solar filters.How often do total solar eclipses happen?They occur about every 18 months somewhere on Earth, but any one location may wait hundreds of years for another.Why are solar eclipses important for science?They let scientists study the Sun’s corona, test Einstein’s theories, and improve space weather research.Also Read | Solar Eclipse 2025: Date, time, viewing locations, and everything you need to know about September’s rare event