On Saturday, March 29, something special will happen when the sun rises along the northeastern coast of North America. A partial solar eclipse will create a unique sight—a crescent sun peeking over the horizon.
Thirteen states will witness this eclipse in varying degrees. If you’re in coastal New England, you’ll have the best view. In Maine, for example, as much as 86% of the sun will be hidden behind the moon at sunrise. New Hampshire and Massachusetts will see about 57% and 55% covered, respectively. Boston will enjoy a 43% eclipse.
If you’re in New York City, expect to see only 21%, with even less in Philadelphia (11%) and Washington, D.C. (1.2%). The best spots to catch the eclipse will be along the coast and further northeast.
During an eclipse, it’s crucial to protect your eyes. Use certified solar eclipse glasses or a telescope with a solar filter. Also, find a place with a clear view of the eastern horizon, where the sun will rise slightly northeast. For the best locations, check out Time and Date’s eclipse map or The Photographer’s Ephemeris.
Seeing a sunrise eclipse is rare, but some lucky spots will offer a “double sunrise.” This phenomenon makes the sun look like two horns breaking the horizon. The best views for this will happen in northeastern Maine, southwestern New Brunswick, and eastern Quebec, with places like Quoddy Head State Park offering impressive views up to 87% eclipse.
In Atlantic Canada, the eclipse will be slightly less dramatic. Moncton, New Brunswick, will see around 84% coverage, while Halifax will get 82%. The most obscured sunrise in Canada will occur near Akulivik, Nunavik, with 91% of the sun eclipsed.
Beyond North America, people in Iceland will experience a midmorning eclipse with 67% coverage, while cities like London and Paris will see much less—31% and 24%, respectively. The eclipse will also be visible from parts of Morocco, where they can expect around 15% to 18% obscuration.
Looking ahead, the next partial solar eclipse will take place on Sept. 21, 2025, visible from Antarctica and parts of the southwestern Pacific. Another chance for North Americans will come on Aug. 12, 2026, coinciding with a total solar eclipse in parts of Europe, including Spain and Iceland.
These celestial events fascinate many, driving curiosity on social media. Users frequently share their experiences and photos, discussing the beauty of such rare occurrences. So whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just a casual observer, mark your calendar for March 29 and enjoy this spectacular moment together.