How long does a solar eclipse last?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the sunlight and casting a shadow on Earth. The duration of a solar eclipse depends on the type of solar eclipse.

If you are in the path of totality, where the Moon completely covers the Sun, the total solar eclipse can last up to a maximum of 7 minutes and 31 seconds. However, the duration of totality is usually around 2 to 3 minutes. Outside of the path of totality, the duration of the solar eclipse is shorter and it is called a partial solar eclipse.

The entire solar eclipse, from the beginning of the partial phase to the end, can last for several hours. In general, the partial solar eclipse lasts for a few hours, while the total solar eclipse is much shorter, only lasting for a few minutes at the maximum.