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Saudi Arabia is preparing for its first total solar eclipse in nearly 77 years, an exceptional astronomical event that is one of the most prominent phenomena the region will witness this century, reminiscent of what earlier generations called the 'Year of Darkness,' when daylight turned into temporary darkness after the moon completely covered the sun's disk.

Weather and climate expert Dr. Khalid Al-Zaaq explained that the total eclipse will occur on Monday, 29 Safar 1449 AH, corresponding to August 2, 2027, noting that the Kingdom has not witnessed a similar phenomenon since 1371 AH (1950 AD), when the last total eclipse was recorded over its territory.

Eclipse path crosses western Saudi Arabia

Al-Zaaq stated that the total eclipse path will pass over parts of western Saudi Arabia, including Mecca, Jeddah, and the Red Sea coast, while other regions will experience a partial eclipse to varying degrees.

He added that the total eclipse duration in some locations will reach approximately 5 minutes and 55 seconds, making it one of the longest total eclipses recorded in the region during the 21st century.

Phenomena only visible during a total eclipse

The event offers a rare scientific opportunity to observe the solar corona, the sun's outer atmosphere that is only visible when its disk is completely blocked. Observers will also see distinctive astronomical phenomena, most notably the diamond ring and Baily's beads, in addition to a noticeable drop in light intensity and temperature, and the appearance of some bright stars and planets in broad daylight.

The eclipse is expected to attract widespread interest from astronomers, photographers, and amateur observers from around the world, as cities along the eclipse path in the Kingdom are considered among the best locations globally to follow and document this phenomenon.

Warnings to protect eyes

Experts urged adherence to safety guidelines when observing the eclipse, stressing the need to use approved solar glasses or filters, and not to look directly at the sun during partial eclipse phases, as this can cause permanent damage to the retina.

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