Fact Check: No, the world won’t go dark on August 2 — The next total solar eclipse is in 2027

A viral claim has taken social media by storm, suggesting that the entire world will go dark for six minutes on August 2. While the idea is captivating, it’s not based on scientific reality. No total solar eclipse will occur on August 2, 2025. Instead, the celestial event being confused with this date is set to occur two years later — on August 2, 2027.

Let’s break down the truth and what you should actually expect in the skies over the next few years.

Total Solar Eclipse: Fact Check Confirms No Eclipse on August 2, 2025

There is no astronomical event that will cause the whole world to go dark on August 2, 2025. The claim likely stems from confusion with the August 2, 2027 eclipse, which will indeed be a rare and spectacular event — but it’s still two years away.

The 2027 total solar eclipse is noteworthy because it will feature the longest duration of totality this century, clocking in at about 6 minutes and 23 seconds. However, this eclipse will be visible only from specific regions, not the entire world.

August 2, 2027: The Real “Eclipse of the Century”

Here are the key facts about the August 2, 2027 total solar eclipse:

• Date: August 2, 2027

• Totality Duration: Up to 6 minutes and 23 seconds

• Path of Totality: Stretches across 11 countries, including Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia

• Best Viewing Location: Luxor, Egypt — where the full eclipse will last the longest

• Visibility: Partial eclipse across much of Africa, Europe, and Asia

The totality path will cover over 2.5 million square kilometers, making it one of the most widely visible eclipses in recent history — but still far from “global darkness.”

Upcoming Solar Eclipse in 2025: What You Can Actually See

While there’s no eclipse on August 2, 2025, there is an exciting celestial event on the calendar.

On September 21, 2025, a partial solar eclipse will be visible from:

• New Zealand

• Tahiti

• Fiji

• Parts of the Pacific Ocean

• Antarctica

During this eclipse, up to 80% of the sun may be covered, depending on your location. It’s not a total eclipse, but still worth watching — safely!

Mark Your Calendar: Upcoming Solar Eclipses (2025–2030)

Date	Type	Visibility
Sep 21, 2025	Partial	Pacific Ocean, NZ, Antarctica
Aug 12, 2026	Total	Greenland, Iceland, Spain
Aug 2, 2027	Total	N. Africa, Middle East
Jul 22, 2028	Total	Australia, South Pacific
Nov 25, 2030	Total	Southern Africa, Indian Ocean

How to Watch a Solar Eclipse Safely

Looking at the sun directly during any eclipse can cause permanent eye damage. Here are safety tips:

• Use ISO 12312-2 certified solar eclipse glasses

• Make a pinhole projector

• Watch NASA’s official livestream for total eclipse coverage

• Avoid regular sunglasses — they are not safe for eclipse viewing

Don’t Be Fooled by Viral Misinformation

It’s important to rely on scientific authorities such as NASA, ESA, or reputable astronomy websites like Space.com or TimeandDate.com when checking eclipse schedules.

Misinformation spreads quickly online. If something sounds too dramatic — like “the whole world will go dark” — it’s worth a second look.

The upcoming total solar eclipse that people are confusing with August 2, 2025, is actually set for August 2, 2027. It will be a remarkable sight — but only visible in specific countries, not worldwide. Until then, mark your calendar for September 21, 2025, for a deep partial eclipse viewable from the South Pacific region.

You Must Know:

Will the world go dark on August 2, 2025?
No. This is a false claim. The next major total eclipse is in 2027.

When is the next total solar eclipse?
August 2, 2027 — visible across North Africa and the Middle East.

Where will the 2027 eclipse be visible?
Countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Spain. Luxor, Egypt, will experience the longest totality.

Is there an eclipse in 2025?
Yes, a partial eclipse on September 21, 2025 — visible from New Zealand, the Pacific, and Antarctica.

What is the longest eclipse of this century?
The 2027 eclipse, lasting 6 minutes and 23 seconds.