NASA Debunks Viral Claim About August 2 Solar Eclipse

Social Media Buzz About Six Minutes of Darkness During Solar Eclipse Dismissed by NASA Experts

A viral assertion on social media has ignited international intrigue. Some social media updates claim that a solar eclipse on August 2, 2025, will cast "six minutes of total darkness" over parts of the world. Others have termed it the longest solar eclipse in years. But is that true? NASA has now put paid to the mounting speculations.

NASA Debunks Global Six-Minute Darkness Claim

NASA has also verified that there will be a solar eclipse on August 2, 2025. It, however, explained that this event will not cause six minutes of darkness in the entire world. Rather, the eclipse will be total or partial depending on the location.

The duration of totality, when the sun is fully covered, varies by location. It can last up to approximately 6 minutes in some places, but not everywhere and not evenly.

The space agency stated that total solar eclipses are spectacular and rare but limited in scope. Only individuals in the narrow path of totality will witness darkness. Others will either witness a partial eclipse or none at all. The path of totality for the August 2 eclipse sweeps across segments of North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.

The ‘six minutes of darkness’ expression is a misnomer. Although certain total eclipses may get to that extent, it does not imply the entire continent or the entire Earth will be dark for six minutes. 

NASA pointed out that such statements usually come before eclipse occurrences, fueled more by viral content than by facts.

NASA's and eclipse tracking websites provide thorough maps and time divisions for each area. For the vast majority of the world's population, the August 2 eclipse will be observable for just a couple of seconds to a few minutes. In many areas, it won't be discernible at all.

Experts caution against staring at the eclipse without solar viewing glasses. Staring at an unprotected eclipse causes permanent eye harm. They also warn against spreading unsubstantiated information on celestial phenomena.

Will the August 2 Eclipse Darken the World?

Astronomers and science writers call on the public to use official websites like NASA, the European Space Agency, or national observatories. These organizations post accurate eclipse timings, safety advice for viewing, and livestreams for people outside the visibility range.

Solar eclipses are incredible astronomical events. Several occur within a year, with phases and types varying from partial to total. The most recent total solar eclipse took place in April 2024 across North America. The next major eclipse visible over a large area will be in 2026.

In summary, yes, there is an eclipse on August 2. But no, it won't plunge the whole world into six minutes of darkness. That's an overstatement. The eclipse will be thrilling, but as with all astronomical events, it is best appreciated with facts and protected eyes.