Monday 2 August 2027

Frequently asked questions

When will the eclipse take place in Tunisia?

On Monday 2 August 2027, in the morning. The partial eclipse starts around 08:56 and ends around 11:31 (times for Sfax, Tunisian time UTC+1). Totality occurs between about 10:04 and 10:14 depending on the place. Use the calculator for exact times.

Will totality be visible from Tunis?

No. Tunis is about 110 km north of the path of totality: the Sun will be about 97.0% covered, but never completely. Eye protection is needed throughout. To see totality, travel south towards Kairouan, Mahdia, El Jem or Sfax.

And from Sousse or Monastir?

Not either, by a small margin: the northern limit passes about 10 km south of these cities. The eclipse there is very deep (99.87% in Sousse) but remains partial. Less than an hour's drive south is enough to see totality. See the Sousse–Monastir sheet.

Where is totality longest in Tunisia?

Along the central line, which crosses the country from the region of Fériana to Sfax, passing near Sidi Bouzid. Totality reaches up to 5 min 44 s there. Sfax gets 5 min 39 s, Sidi Bouzid and Gafsa more than five minutes.

Is it dangerous to look at the eclipse?

Looking at the Sun without protection can cause permanent eye damage. Use eclipse glasses complying with ISO 12312-2 during all partial phases. Only during totality itself, inside the path, can you look with the naked eye. Read our safety guide.

Are sunglasses enough?

No. Even very dark sunglasses let through far too much light. Only certified solar eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2) or a dedicated solar viewer are safe for looking directly at the partially eclipsed Sun.

Where can I get eclipse glasses?

From reputable suppliers of astronomical equipment. Check the ISO 12312-2 marking and the condition of the filters. The American Astronomical Society publishes a list of reputable vendors. Avoid glasses of unknown origin.

Can I photograph the eclipse with my phone?

Yes, with precautions: during the partial phases, put a certified solar filter in front of the lens and never look at the Sun through the screen without glasses. During totality, the phone can be used without a filter and captures the atmosphere very well. Keep time to watch with your own eyes.

What if the sky is cloudy?

Statistically, early August mornings are very often clear in the path of totality, but dust haze is possible. Forecasts will only be meaningful a few days before; follow our weather page and stay flexible about your observing site.

Is the eclipse dangerous for pregnant women, for food or for water?

No. There is no scientific evidence that an eclipse harms pregnant women, food, water or plants. The only real danger is to the eyes when looking at the Sun without protection.

Will there be an eclipse prayer?

In Islam, the eclipse prayer (salat al-kusuf) is traditionally performed during a solar eclipse. Information about prayers is given by local mosques and religious authorities.

How accurate are the times on this site?

The contacts are computed from NASA’s Besselian elements and are accurate to about two seconds for the partial phase and to a few seconds for the start and end of totality away from the limits. Near the limits, the irregular edge of the Moon can change the duration of totality by several seconds and shift the limits by 1–2 km. Details are on the sources and methods page.

Should I expect traffic and crowds?

Probably, especially on the roads leading from the north and the Sahel to the path of totality. Plan to arrive early, carry water and follow the instructions of the local authorities.