Solar Eclipses: Social media is once again buzzing with wild claims — this time, about a supposed solar eclipse plunging the Earth into total darkness for six minutes on August 2, 2025. While such posts have stirred panic and excitement in equal measure, NASA has officially debunked these rumors.
Here’s what’s really happening in the sky — and when.
No Solar Eclipse Today — The Real Date Is 2027
NASA has clarified that there is no solar eclipse occurring today or anytime soon in August 2025. The rumored “longest solar eclipse of the century” is real — but it is scheduled for August 2, 2027, not this year.
“The total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027, will last up to six minutes — making it one of the longest of the century,” says a NASA spokesperson. “But it will not occur in 2025.”
This rare celestial spectacle will be visible across parts of North Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe, offering a breathtaking view for skywatchers in those regions. The last time such an extended eclipse occurred was decades ago, and the next won’t happen again until 2114.
What About 2025? Only a Partial Eclipse — And Not in India
While 2025 does feature a solar eclipse, it’s far less dramatic than the viral posts suggest. The second and final solar eclipse of this year will take place on September 21–22, and it will be a partial solar eclipse.
- Start Time: September 21, 10:59 PM IST
- Maximum Eclipse: September 22, 1:11 AM IST
- End Time: September 22, 3:23 AM IST
- Total Duration: 4 hours and 24 minutes
However, this eclipse won’t be visible in India. The celestial event can only be observed from parts of Australia, Indonesia, and the South Pacific Ocean.
No Religious Impact in India — No Sutak Period Applies
In Hindu tradition, the Sutak period — an inauspicious window preceding eclipses — is only observed if the eclipse is visible in the region. Since the September 21 eclipse won’t be visible in India, there will be no impact on religious ceremonies or rituals.
Interestingly, this eclipse falls on the last day of Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period dedicated to paying respects to ancestors. But again, due to its invisibility from Indian soil, the eclipse carries no religious significance this year.
What Is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, partially or fully blocking the sunlight. Depending on the Moon’s position, an eclipse can be total, partial, or annular:
- Total Eclipse: The Moon completely blocks the Sun.
- Partial Eclipse: Only part of the Sun is obscured.
- Annular Eclipse: The Moon covers the center of the Sun, leaving a “ring of fire.”
Don’t Fall for Misinformation
In the age of viral content, it’s easy for scientific facts to get buried under sensationalized headlines. While the 2027 total solar eclipse will be an astronomical wonder worth waiting for, 2025 won’t bring Earth-shattering darkness — literally or figuratively.
So, next time you scroll past a viral eclipse warning, remember: science first, social media second.
