Ghana Solar Eclipse, Total Solar Eclipse, August 2027
The total solar eclipse of August 2, 2027, is more than a rare astronomical event. It is a spectacle of science, a moment of celestial awe, and for many, a spiritual touch-point.
Whether you're a scientist, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who marvels at the wonders of the universe, this six-minute window of darkness in broad daylight will offer a memory of a lifetime.
Ghana West Africa has been one of the few African countries to witness remarkable solar eclipses that brought daytime darkness and awe to the skies. Here are some notable solar eclipses experienced in Ghana.
* March 29, 2006 – Perhaps the most famous in Ghana's recent memory, this total solar eclipse swept across the country, with places like Jirapa, Wa, and Techiman experiencing full darkness for over 2 minutes. Crowds gathered across towns and cities to witness the event, with schools and media offering education on eclipse safety.
* June 21, 2001 – A partial eclipse was visible over southern Ghana, although the event was short-lived and less dramatic.
* November 3, 2013 – A hybrid eclipse, starting as an annular and becoming total in parts of Africa. Ghana witnessed a partial eclipse, with up to 80% coverage in some areas.
* October 14, 2004, and February 26, 1979 – Also marked notable partial eclipses, though not as widely remembered.
These events have always stirred public fascination, scientific engagement, and spiritual reflection across Ghana.
What Causes a Total Solar Eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, fully covering the Sun’s disk from the perspective of some observers on Earth. This alignment can only happen during a new moon, and due to the elliptical orbits of the Moon and Earth, such precise positioning is rare.
The Moon's umbra (the darkest part of its shadow) sweeps across Earth, creating a path of totality. Within this path, observers experience total darkness in the daytime, as the Moon blocks sunlight completely for several minutes.
A New Chapter Awaits: The Total Solar Eclipse of August 2, 2027
While Ghana will not be in the direct path of totality for the 2027 eclipse, the magnitude of the event will resonate globally. For those willing to travel, this will be an unmissable opportunity to witness over 6 minutes of total darkness, the longest since 2009—and the longest until 2114.
When and Where: Exact Date and Timing
* Date of Eclipse: Saturday, August 2, 2027
* Start of total eclipse: Around 10:00 UTC
* Maximum eclipse: 10:07 UTC (peak darkness)
* End of eclipse path: Around 12:00 UTC
At its peak, the eclipse will last an extraordinary 6 minutes and 23 seconds—a rarity, as most total solar eclipses only last 2 to 4 minutes.
Countries in the Path of Totality (Full Darkness)
While the eclipse will be partially visible in much of Africa—including Ghana, which will experience a partial eclipse of 40–60%—the following countries will witness totality, with some enjoying 6+ minutes of darkness:
Total Eclipse With 6+ Minutes:
Egypt (especially Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada)
Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Eritrea, Somalia.
Total Eclipse (Shorter Duration):
Tunisia, Libya, Oman
United Arab Emirates (UAE) – limited areas
Pakistan – western regions
India – Gujarat and parts of Rajasthan
Morocco – coastal visibility
Partial Eclipse Observers:
Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, South Africa
Europe (Southern Spain, Italy, Greece)
Other parts of West Africa
Scientific Importance of the 2027 Solar Eclipse