Partial solar eclipse on March 29, next lunar eclipse on Sept 7-8; everything you need to know

A partial solar eclipse is set to occur on March 29, 2025, marking an important astronomical event. Solar eclipses occur when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on the Earth and partially or completely blocking the Sun’s light. 

This celestial event will be visible in several regions across the globe, though India will not witness it.

Also Read: Saturn Transit in Pisces on March 29, 2025: A cosmic shift and its impact on all zodiac signs

Types of Solar Eclipses and Their Occurrence

A solar eclipse can be of three types based on the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth:

Total Solar Eclipse – The Sun is completely covered by the Moon, casting darkness for a short period.

Partial Solar Eclipse – The Moon covers only a portion of the Sun, causing a partial dimming.

Annular Solar Eclipse – The Moon covers the central part of the Sun, leaving a bright ring-like outline.

The March 29, 2025, eclipse will be a partial solar eclipse, meaning that only a portion of the Sun will be obscured by the Moon.

Global Visibility and Impact

According to astronomical data, the partial solar eclipse will be visible in the following regions:
Northern Arctic areas
Greenland
Iceland
North Atlantic Ocean
Parts of Europe
Northwestern Russia

Eclipse Timing and Maximum Coverage

The partial solar eclipse is expected to begin at 2:20 PM IST (Indian Standard Time) and will reach its peak at 4:17 PM IST, when approximately 90% of the Sun will be obscured in the most affected regions. The eclipse will conclude by 4:14 PM IST.

Although this phenomenon will be visible in some parts of the world, it will not be seen from India, Asia, Africa, or major parts of the Pacific Ocean.

Scientific Explanation of a Solar Eclipse

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves into its orbital position between the Earth and the Sun. The alignment of these celestial bodies creates a shadow effect, leading to a temporary reduction in sunlight.

During a solar eclipse, observers on Earth witness the Sun partially or completely obscured, depending on their geographical location. In a partial solar eclipse, only a section of the Sun is hidden, making it a fascinating yet less intense phenomenon compared to a total eclipse.

Upcoming Lunar and Solar Eclipses in 2025

Apart from the partial solar eclipse on March 29, another significant lunar eclipse is expected on September 7–8, 2025. This total lunar eclipse will be visible across Asia, Europe, Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean, Australia, and parts of the Indian Ocean.

Additionally, the final solar eclipse of 2025 will occur on September 21–22, and it will be partially visible from New Zealand, Eastern Polynesia, and Western Antarctica.

Cultural and Scientific Interest in Eclipses

Solar and lunar eclipses have fascinated humanity for centuries, with different cultures attaching mythological and spiritual significance to these events. In modern times, scientists and astronomers closely study eclipses to understand the Moon’s orbit, the Sun’s corona, and the overall impact on Earth's atmosphere.

While the March 29, 2025, partial solar eclipse will not be visible in India, it remains an important celestial event for astronomers and skywatchers worldwide. Those in regions where the eclipse is visible can expect a stunning cosmic display, while others can follow live streams and scientific updates to experience the phenomenon remotely.