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Editor in Chief Mohamed Wadie

Egypt Next Solar Eclipse to See Coming in 2027


Mon 08 Apr 2024 | 09:46 PM
Total Solar Eclipse
Total Solar Eclipse
Rana Atef

On Monday, Dr. Yasser Abdel Hadi, the director of the Solar Research Laboratory at NRIAG, said that today's total solar eclipse was only witnessed in Mexico, the US, and Canada.

He added that it was seen as a partial eclipse in western Europe, North America, northern South America, the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Arctic continent.

The total eclipse lasted approximately five hours and 10 minutes from its beginning until its end. At the peak of the total eclipse, the moon will cover about 105.7% of the sun. 

He added that next total solar eclipse that would be witnessed in Egypt will take place on August 2, 2027 in the city of Luxor.

Two main types of eclipses can be observed from Earth: lunar and solar. In a lunar eclipse, Earth is between the Sun and the Moon. In a solar eclipse, the Moon is between the Sun and Earth.

"Solar eclipses are celestial events that can occur about every 16 months and can last up to seven and a half minutes depending on the Earth-Sun-Moon geometry," the European Space Agency said.

Solar eclipses take place when the Sun, Moon and Earth and in partial or complete alignment.

"The Moon blocks light coming from the Sun and subsequently casts a shadow on Earth, with the eclipse becoming visible to anyone within this shadow," the European Space Agency said.

Solar eclipses can only be safely observed through solar filters. Astro enthusiasts would generally opt for a pair of solar eclipse glasses to view the celestial event. Those planning to observe the eclipse outdoors are advised to wear solar eclipse glasses to avoid the risk of blindness.