A partial solar eclipse is set to take place on March 29, 2025, offering a rare celestial event as the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun. During this eclipse, the Moon will partially block sunlight, casting a shadow on specific areas of the Earth. 

Can India witness?

Unfortunately, the eclipse will not be visible in India. The timing and alignment of the event mean that while it will be visible in other parts of the world, the Sun will remain fully visible in India, leaving the country to miss out on the partial obscuring of sunlight.

A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, but only partially covers the Sun’s disk. Unlike a total eclipse, where the Moon completely obscures the Sun, a partial eclipse occurs when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are not perfectly aligned, causing the Moon to cast a shadow on only part of the Earth’s surface. As a result, observers in the path of the penumbra (the outer shadow of the Moon) will see the Sun appear as though a “bite” has been taken out of it.

Date and timing

The first solar eclipse of 2025 will occur on Saturday, March 29. The event will begin at 4:50 AM EDT (2:20 PM IST), with the maximum eclipse reaching its peak at 6:47 AM EDT. The eclipse will end around 8:43 AM EDT. In India, the eclipse will begin at 2:20 PM IST and reach its maximum at 4:17 PM IST. Despite these timings, the eclipse will not be visible in India due to the geographic location and alignment.

Things to keep in mind

  • Never look directly at the sun: Looking directly at the Sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause severe and permanent damage to your eyes, including blindness.

  • Use certified solar eclipse glasses: Always wear glasses specifically designed for solar viewing that meet the international safety standard (ISO 12312-2). Regular sunglasses are not safe and will not protect your eyes from harmful solar radiation.

  • Avoid using optical instruments: Do not use binoculars, telescopes, or cameras without proper solar filters. Even with eclipse glasses, using such instruments without the proper filters can result in eye damage.