Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Earliest Solar Eclipse Recorded in Assyria

6/15/2025

48 6

Summary

Story summary

On June 15, 763 BC, the Bur-Sagale eclipse occurred during the reign of Assyrian king Ashur-dan III. This solar eclipse, recorded in Assyrian eponym lists, is the earliest documented eclipse in history that has been accurately identified. It highlights the significance of celestial events in ancient Mesopotamian civilization.

1 of 1

Story summary

On June 15, 763 BC, the Bur-Sagale eclipse occurred during the reign of Assyrian king Ashur-dan III. This solar eclipse, recorded in Assyrian eponym lists, is the earliest documented eclipse in history that has been accurately identified. It highlights the significance of celestial events in ancient Mesopotamian civilization.