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Astronomy/Totality of Solar Eclipse

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Expert: - 5/9/2004


Question
What is the maximum possible length of time that totality can last during a solar eclipse? When did it last happen, and when will it happen again?

Answer
The therotical maximum duration for a solar eclipse is 7 minutes 31 seconds. The longest so far recorded was on June 20th 1955 when totality lasted 7 minutes and 28 seconds over the Phillipines. It is due to happen again onJuly 16th 2186 when a eclipse of 7 minutes 29 seconds will be visible 300km off the coast of Surinam

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Volunteer

Harry Hayfield

Expertise

Particular expert in eclipses (both solar and lunar), but able to answer most questions about astronomy or refer to a website that can help

Experience

Have been interested in eclipses since August 1999 and hope to see the annular eclipse in Scotland next year

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