“ECLIPSE OF THE CENTURY” ONE YEAR AWAY
Bahrain-based astronomer and researcher Mohammed Redha Al Asfoor said the world is now just one year away from one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the coming years — a **total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027**, which will be visible across several Arab countries.
Al Asfoor said that while the world is also preparing for a total solar eclipse on **August 12, 2026**, followed by an annular solar eclipse on **February 6, 2027**, the August 2, 2027 eclipse stands out as one of the most significant astronomical events of the 21st century.
He attributed its significance to the **long duration of totality, the wide path of visibility and the fact that the eclipse will pass over major cities and densely populated areas**, giving millions of people the opportunity to witness the phenomenon.
According to Al Asfoor, the path of totality will begin over the **Atlantic Ocean** before crossing parts of **Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Somalia**, before moving towards the Indian Ocean.
Bahrain to See Partial Eclipse
Bahrain will fall **outside the path of totality**, but residents will still be able to witness a significant partial solar eclipse.
At the peak of the event, the Moon is expected to cover approximately **61.7% of the Sun’s disc** as viewed from Bahrain.
Al Asfoor described the event as an exceptional **scientific and tourism opportunity** for countries located along the path of totality.
### Makkah Among Key Viewing Locations
**Makkah in Saudi Arabia** is expected to be among the most notable locations for viewing the eclipse.
During totality, residents and pilgrims in Makkah could see the area around the **Grand Mosque** temporarily fall into darkness for approximately **five minutes**, accompanied by the appearance of the Sun’s corona.
The phenomenon is also expected to bring a noticeable reduction in daylight intensity and temperatures, creating a rare and dramatic scene.
Major Arab Cities to Experience Totality
Other Arab cities expected to fall within the path of totality include:
* **Jeddah and Abha — Saudi Arabia**
* **Luxor and Asyut — Egypt**
* **Sana'a — Yemen**
* **Benghazi — Libya**
* **Sidi Bouzid and Sfax — Tunisia**
* **Tetouan and Tangier — Morocco**
Al Asfoor urged astronomy enthusiasts and those interested in witnessing the event to **mark August 2, 2027 on their calendars and begin planning early**.
He said the eclipse is expected to become one of the world's major astronomical events in the coming years and could attract large numbers of **researchers, astronomy enthusiasts and tourists from around the world**.
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