Partial solar eclipse reveals rare double sunrise on March 29, 2025
- A partial solar eclipse will take place on March 29, 2025, across parts of the U.S. and Canada.
- Observers in northeastern Maine will see the largest eclipse in the U.S. at 85% obscured, while Nunavik, Canada, will have 94% obscuration.
- This event offers a unique opportunity for public engagement, as it is the last solar eclipse in North America until 2026.
On March 29, 2025, North America will witness the first solar eclipse of the year, a significant event for both casual observers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. The partial solar eclipse, caused by the new moon positioning itself between Earth and the sun, will be visible from various locations in the United States and Canada. In the U.S., citizens in 13 states, particularly in the northeast, will experience varying levels of obscuration during the event. The eclipse will be visible from 6:13 to 7:17 a.m. EDT in the U.S. and from 6:56 a.m. NDT to 8:20 a.m. EDT in Canada. Notably, northeastern Maine will experience the largest visible eclipse in the U.S. at 85% obscuration, while Quebec's Nunavik will see almost 94% of the sun eclipsed during sunrise. As the eclipse unfolds, observers in places like New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia will witness various percentages of the sun being obstructed. For instance, New York City folks will see about 22% of the sun eclipsed, while those in Boston will witness 43% obscuration. Some of the most spectacular views, characterized by 'devil's horns'—where two cusps of the sun are visible on either side of the silhouette of the moon—will be seen near the U.S.-Canada border in Maine and New Brunswick. This phenomenon will occur along the St. Lawrence River and in the vicinity of Quebec City as well. While this event may not offer the dramatic effects of a total solar eclipse—where the day turns dark—this partial eclipse presents a unique spectacle, particularly during sunrise. There will be no totality, emphasizing the difference from previous eclipses such as the notable one on April 8, 2024. Astronomers and photography enthusiasts are preparing for this moment, projecting that images can be effectively captured either using specialized software or by taking screenshots from streaming videos of the eclipse. In conclusion, this partial solar eclipse serves as a reminder of the wonders of celestial events and invites individuals to engage in viewing, streaming, and photographing this rare occurrence before the next total solar eclipse, which won't happen in North America until August 12, 2026.