North America is eagerly anticipating its next total solar eclipse, which is set to occur in about eight years, eleven months, and twenty-two days. While total solar eclipses are relatively rare occurrences in the same location, happening only every 375 years or so, they are more common worldwide, with one happening approximately every 18 months. In the upcoming decade, Earth will witness a total of seven total solar eclipses, with countries like Australia, Egypt, Spain, and Sudan being plunged into darkness under the shadow of the moon. The first of these eclipses is scheduled for August 12, 2026, with the final one set for March 20, 2034, featuring totality durations ranging from 1 minute, 8 seconds to 6 minutes, 23 seconds.
The total solar eclipse of 2026 will take place over Russia, Greenland, Iceland, and Spain, with a maximum duration of totality of 2 minutes and 18 seconds. It will be Europe’s first total solar eclipse in 27 years and will coincide with the Perseid meteor shower, offering a unique celestial spectacle. Locations like Greenland, western Iceland, and northern Spain will witness the path of totality, offering various viewing opportunities, including a “sunset totality” from the Spanish island of Mallorca.
In the total solar eclipse of 2027, set to occur on August 2, viewers will be treated to 6 minutes and 23 seconds of totality in locations like Luxor, Egypt, and southern Spain. This eclipse belongs to the Saros 136 family of total solar eclipses, known for repeating every 18 years, 11 days, and eight hours. Luxor in Egypt will provide a clear view of the eclipse, with other viewing options available in Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and southern Spain.
The total solar eclipse of 2028 is slated for July 22, with locations like Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Australia, and New Zealand experiencing totality for 5 minutes and 10 seconds. Australia will witness its second total solar eclipse in 15 years, offering viewers in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, and New Zealand a chance to witness this rare celestial event.
Looking ahead to the total solar eclipse of 2030 on November 25, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho, and Australia will be in the path of totality, offering viewers a glimpse of the eclipse for 3 minutes and 44 seconds. The remote location of the eclipse offers a unique opportunity for exploration and safari adventures in Namibia and Botswana.
In November 2031, a hybrid total-annular solar eclipse will occur, visible only from a specially positioned cruise ship in the Pacific Ocean. This rare hybrid eclipse combines elements of an annular and total solar eclipse, providing an intriguing celestial display for informed eclipse chasers.
The total solar eclipse of 2033 on March 30 will be visible from locations in Russia and the U.S., particularly in Alaska, offering a prime opportunity to explore the region during peak northern lights season. The eclipse will provide a unique viewing experience for spectators in Alaska, including locations like Utqiagvik (Barrow) and Sagavanirktok (Prudhoe Bay).
Closing out the decade, the total solar eclipse of 2034 on March 20 will pass over 13 countries in Central Africa and South Asia, offering a total duration of 4 minutes and 9 seconds. Spectators will have the chance to view the eclipse from notable locations such as the Red Sea Coast in Egypt, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Persepolis in Iran, and Leh in the Indian Himalayas.
In conclusion, the upcoming decade promises several opportunities to witness the awe-inspiring phenomenon of total solar eclipses across various global locations. Whether embarking on a cruise adventure in the Pacific Ocean or exploring remote regions in Africa and Asia, eclipse enthusiasts are in for a treat with these celestial events.