There will be a partial solar eclipse on 29 March 2025, during the time of the new moon, and it will be visible over Europe, North America, and Russia. A partial eclipse does not cover the entire sun, but rather a portion of it remains visible. The eclipse presents a unique sight to witness a “crescent” sun since the moon comes between the sun and the earth, casting an obstruction over part of the disk of the sun.
Where to Witness the Eclipse
A partial solar eclipse is observable in a large region, extending to the northeast tip of North America, most of Europe, and Russia. There is a chance for observers in Morocco to observe the moon hiding a sliver of the sun. The eclipse is not, however, observable in the southern hemisphere.
The precise time of the new moon, when Earth, sun, and moon align perfectly, will be 5:58 a.m. EDT (1058 UTC), reports the U.S. Naval Observatory. Although the eclipse begins at 8:50 a.m. UTC and concludes at 12:43 p.m. UTC, the times of visibility will differ according to location.
Maximum Eclipse in Canada
The eclipse is visible in eastern Canada, particularly Quebec and Nunavut, where the moon will occult approximately 90% of the sun. The eclipse begins early morning just before sunrise in Iqaluit, the Nunavut capital, at 5:57 local time. The maximum coverage is at 6:51 a.m., when the moon will occult nearly 90% of the disk of the sun. Audiences in this region will observe the eclipse when the sun is low on the horizon.
Safety Tips for Viewers
It is very important to use proper precautions when viewing the eclipse. Never look directly at the sun without using a proper eye shield. Ordinary sunglasses will not guard your eyes against harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, leading to permanent damage or even blindness. The best way to view a solar eclipse is with certified solar eclipse glasses or solar filters for telescopes and binoculars.
While the sky will not get as dark as it does for a total solar eclipse, observers will witness a breathtaking crescent sun and should take every precaution to safeguard their eyes during the event.
