Overview
- The event is projected to offer a maximum of 6 minutes 23 seconds of darkness, the longest totality until 2114, with 1991 lasting 6 minutes 53 seconds for comparison.
- The Moon’s shadow is expected to first reach land near the Strait of Gibraltar before sweeping across southern Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, then into Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Somalia.
- Most visibility will be in parts of Africa, Europe and the Middle East, with no view for much of the Americas; a brief partial view is forecast for parts of Maine in the early morning.
- Researchers highlight rare opportunities to study the solar corona and short-term atmospheric and wildlife responses during the unusually long totality.
- Viewing is safe without eye protection only during totality, and certified solar filters are required for partial phases, with authorities and outlets advising preparation for large crowds along the path.