Experience the Magic: March 2025 Brings a Stunning Partial Solar Eclipse During the New Moon Weekend!

The new moon on March 29, 2025, will bring a partial solar eclipse. This exciting event will be visible in northeastern North America, most of Europe, and parts of Russia. If you’re in Morocco, you can catch a glimpse of the moon covering a part of the sun.

A new moon occurs when the sun, moon, and Earth align. Typically, the moon passes either above or below the sun. But during this event, it will move directly in front of the sun, creating the partial eclipse.

The precise moment of the new moon happens at 5:58 a.m. EDT (10:58 UTC) in New York, according to the U.S. Naval Observatory. Unlike a total solar eclipse, where the sky darkens completely, a partial eclipse allows part of the sun to remain visible. However, it’s crucial to take safety precautions. Using special solar eclipse glasses is the only safe way to view this phenomenon directly.

During the eclipse, when the moon covers up to 90% of the sun, it will create a crescent shape. For instance, residents in Iqaluit, Nunavut, will experience this fascinating view early in the morning. The eclipse will start at 5:57 a.m. local time, just before sunrise, and peak at 6:51 a.m.

Observers in Quebec City will see about 72% of the sun obscured. In Montreal, around 50% coverage will occur at 6:42 a.m., following a start time of 5:29 a.m. Meanwhile, Boston will see 40% coverage during its 6:31 a.m. sunrise, while New York will experience 22% obscuration just after sunrise. In Europe, Reykjavik will witness the moon covering about 68% of the sun.

This eclipse is part of a series of astronomical events. According to recent studies, interest in such events has surged, with many taking to social media to share their experiences and photos. Hashtags like #SolarEclipse2025 are gaining popularity, and online platforms are buzzing with discussions about viewing locations and safety tips.

When planning to watch the eclipse, remember to prioritize eye safety. Regular sunglasses don’t offer adequate protection. For safe viewing, only specially designed solar filters can ensure your eyes stay safe during such celestial events.

Even if you miss the solar eclipse, the night of the new moon will offer a chance to spot bright planets. Jupiter will be visible in the evening sky after sunset around 7:18 p.m. EDT in New York, while Mars will be higher in the southern sky. In the southern hemisphere, Jupiter and Mars will appear lower, but sunset times will differ, with locations like Buenos Aires experiencing sunset around 6:50 p.m.

As spring progresses, constellations will start appearing. If you’re in the mid-northern latitudes, the Big Dipper and Orion will be prominent in the night sky. For those in the southern hemisphere, the Southern Cross will rise, along with bright stars like Alpha Centauri and Canopus.

Mark your calendars for this captivating eclipse—it’s an experience not to be missed. And remember to share your observations safely!

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