Definition: Salaatul-Kusoof is a special Salaat performed at the time of a solar eclipse.
Status: It is Sunnah to perform two rakaat Salaatul-Kusoof (in congregation with the Imaam) at the time of a solar eclipse.
Note: Kusoof usually refers to solar eclipse while Khusoof refers to lunar eclipse.
The Method of Salaatul-Kusoof:
It is Mustahabb (preferable) to perform Ghusl before Salaatul Kusoof.
Salaatul-Kusoof can only be performed during permissible times of Salaah and not in impermissible times like after Fajr and 'Asr and during sunrise and sunset.
Adhaan and Iqaamah will not be called for this Salaat and there is no Khutbah before or after this Salaat.
The two Rakaats will be performed normally, but it is Sunnah to lengthen the Qiyaam, Ruku, and Sajdah more than usual. The Imaam can also recite audibly as well.
It is Mustahabb (preferable) to perform Salaatul-Kusoof in congregation with the the Imaam. If that is not possible then it can be performed individually at home. Ladies should also perform these two Rakaats at home.
Afterwards Dua should be made to Allah until the eclipse has been cleared.
فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم: ”إِنَّ الشَّمْسَ وَالْقَمَرَ لاَ يَخْسِفَانِ لِمَوْتِ أَحَدٍ وَلاَ لِحَيَاتِهِ، وَلَكِنَّهُمَا آيَتَانِ مِنْ آيَاتِ اللَّهِ، فَإِذَا رَأَيْتُمُوهُمَا فَادْعُوا اللَّهَ وَصَلُّوا حَتَّى يَنْجَلِيَ“.
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
“The sun and the moon are two signs amongst the signs of Allah. They do not eclipse because of someone's death or life. So when you see them, invoke Allah and pray till the eclipse is clear.”
[Bukhaari]