Excitement Grows in Morocco for Upcoming Solar Eclipse
As the solar eclipse approaches, excitement is palpable across Morocco, especially in Casablanca where residents eagerly anticipate witnessing the celestial event. On August 12, 2026, while northern Spain will experience a total solar eclipse, Morocco will be uniquely positioned to observe a partial eclipse, making it a significant occasion for astronomy enthusiasts. The Attarik Foundation has organized a free public event for this astronomical spectacle, with all available slots already filled. Nearly 500 participants are set to gather on a Casablanca beach, equipped with certified eclipse glasses, to safely observe the phenomenon under the guidance of experts in Earth and planetary sciences.
Viewing Conditions and Eclipse Details
The anticipation builds as the eclipse is scheduled to begin at 6:45 PM, during which the moon will obscure approximately 87% of the sun, casting a shadow over the city. This event marks the first time in over two decades that such an occurrence has been visible from the region. "It’s a fantastic phenomenon where the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, creating a crescent shape as the sun sets at 8:20 PM, just as the eclipse is still in progress," explains Mohamed Aoudjehane, a geologist and director of the Attarik Foundation. For those unable to secure official viewing glasses, Aoudjehane suggests alternative methods, such as creating a pinhole projector using cardboard to safely view the eclipse indirectly, as direct viewing can cause severe retinal damage.
This partial eclipse serves as a precursor to an even more significant event set for August 2, 2027, when a total solar eclipse will be observable in the northern regions of Morocco. As preparations continue, the enthusiasm surrounding these astronomical events not only enriches the local culture but also deepens the public’s appreciation for the wonders of the universe.
As reported by rfi.fr.
