Surya Grahan 2025: Solar Eclipse and Viewing Protocols

The solar eclipse on March 29, 2025, will feature a double sunrise but will not be visible in India. The eclipse will last about four hours, with regions in the US, Canada, Greenland, and Iceland seeing it. Eye safety is crucial; viewers should use certified eclipse glasses and take skin protection measures.
On March 29, 2025, a solar eclipse will occur, where the Moon will partially obstruct the Sun’s light. This event is notable for being a partial solar eclipse, commonly referred to as a double sunrise eclipse, as it will create the illusion of two sunrises in certain locations. However, this eclipse will not be visible in India, but regions in the United States, Canada, Greenland, and Iceland will have the opportunity to witness it.
In India Standard Time, the eclipse will begin at 2:20 PM, reach its peak at 4:17 PM, and conclude at 6:13 PM, lasting approximately four hours. For some regions, the start of the eclipse at sunrise will create an enchanting effect, making it appear as if the sun rises twice.
The eclipse’s visibility spans from eastern Canada to northern Russia, with partial views in Europe and parts of northeastern North America and northwest Africa, according to the Paris Observatory. The event starts at 0850 GMT and finishes at 1243 GMT, with northeastern Canada and Greenland being the best locations to experience the maximum eclipse at 1047 GMT. In other areas, like France, only 10 to 30 percent of the Sun’s disc will be obscured.
Eye safety during a solar eclipse is paramount. NASA emphasizes the necessity of using certified eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers at all times while observing the Sun. Regular sunglasses, regardless of their darkness, offer insufficient protection. Eclipse glasses meet strict ISO safety standards and should be inspected before use for any damage.
It is crucial to supervise children when viewing the eclipse and ensure they wear glasses correctly. Traditional eclipse glasses should never be used with telescopes, binoculars, or cameras due to the risk of eye injury. The only safe time to view the Sun without protection is during totality; as soon as any portion of the Sun becomes visible, eclipse glasses must be reattached immediately.
In addition to eye protection, viewers should also protect their skin. Wearing sunscreen, hats, and long-sleeved clothing can help shield against the sun’s damaging rays while enjoying the eclipse, especially for those spending long hours outside.
The solar eclipse on March 29, 2025, will present a unique astronomical event visible in select regions. It is essential to prioritize eye safety by utilizing certified eclipse glasses while observing the eclipse to avoid potential damage. Additionally, taking precautions for skin protection enhances the overall experience. Unfortunately, this phenomenon will not be visible from India, necessitating travel for those who wish to observe it in person. For those unable to travel, live streams provide an alternative to witness this captivating event.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com