Science
Rare Partial Solar Eclipse on March 29: Where and How to Watch
The partial solar eclipse on Saturday, March 29, is not only important from an astronomical point of view, but it will also be the only solar eclipse visible in the US this year. During this rare event, especially in the northeastern part of the US, people will get to see the unique sight of a “double sunrise.” This eclipse is happening when a full lunar eclipse took place just two weeks ago, which has increased the thrill of watching it even more.
What is a partial solar eclipse?
A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth, but all three are not completely in a straight line. For this reason, only a part of the Sun is covered and it looks like a crescent shape in the sky. In this eclipse, the Moon will not completely cover the Sun, but it will cast its shadow on parts of the Northern Hemisphere, which is likely to create a wonderful sight.
From which places will this solar eclipse be visible?
The probability of seeing this eclipse depends on where you are and what the weather is like there. It will be visible at different levels in parts of 13 US states. According to a report by LiveScience, the best view will be seen in the coastal areas of northeastern America.
- Maine: Here about 86% of the sun will be covered by the eclipse.
- New Hampshire: Here 57% of the sun will be covered.
- Massachusetts: Here 55% of the sun will be invisible during the eclipse.
Apart from this, this partial solar eclipse will be visible in Europe, Africa, North Asia, parts of South America, Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic regions apart from America and Canada.
Eclipse time in America
According to NASA, this eclipse will start before sunrise in America and Canada. Here are the times for some major cities:
- Baltimore: 6:55 a.m. to 7:02 a.m., 3% of the sun will be covered.
- Boston: 6:31 a.m. to 7:07 a.m., 43% of the sun will be covered.
- Buffalo: 7:02 a.m. to 7:09 a.m., 2% of the sun will be eclipsed.
- New York City: 6:44 a.m. to 7:04 a.m., 22% of the sun will be covered.
- Philadelphia: 6:49 a.m. to 7:03 a.m., 12% of the sun will be eclipsed.
- Portland, Maine: 6:27 a.m. to 7:10 a.m., 64% of the sun will be covered.
Washington, D.C. (Washington, D.C.): From 6:56 am to 7:01 am, only 1% of the sun will be affected by the eclipse.
In Europe and North Africa, this eclipse will be visible from mid-morning to noon, while in Eastern Europe and North Asia it will be seen in the afternoon or evening.
What is the “double sunrise” and “devil’s horns” effect?
Since the time of the eclipse is close to sunrise, it can be seen as a “double sunrise” from some places. This means that due to the position of the eclipse, the rising sun can create the illusion of appearing twice.
Especially in some coastal areas of northern Maine, New Brunswick and Quebec, people can see the “Devil’s Horns” effect. During this time, the eclipsed sun will appear as if two large horns have grown in it. This view will be extremely unique and it is necessary to have the right location and weather conditions to see it.
Safety measures for viewing a solar eclipse
The view of a solar eclipse may be attractive, but watching it without safety equipment can prove to be extremely dangerous for the eyes.
NASA warns:
“It is not safe to look at the Sun with the naked eye, except for the brief time when the Moon completely covers the Sun during a total solar eclipse. For this it is necessary to use special safety glasses (Eclipse Glasses) or a pinhole camera.”
Danger:
If a person looks directly at the Sun, his retina may suffer permanent damage, which can lead to blindness. The American Astronomical Society also advises being cautious in this regard.
Is this a rare occasion?
Yes, this solar eclipse is the only solar eclipse of this year visible from America, so there is a lot of enthusiasm among astronomy lovers to see it. Although this is a partial eclipse, its unique phenomena—such as the “double sunrise” and “devil’s horns” effect—make it even more special.
Conclusion
This partial solar eclipse on Saturday, March 29, is a golden opportunity for those interested in astronomical phenomena. This eclipse is not just a scientific phenomenon but also an exciting spectacle, which can be seen from the right place to see rare sights like “double sunrise” or “devil’s horns.” However, it is important to take special care of eye protection while watching it.
If you are near the northeastern coast of the United States, then definitely enjoy this unique phenomenon if the weather is clear. After all, such rare celestial sights remind us that there are still many wonders hidden in the universe; we just need to be at the right time and place!
FAQs
Q. What is a partial solar eclipse?
A. A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon blocks only a part of the Sun, creating a crescent-shaped appearance.
Q. When will the partial solar eclipse happen?
A. The eclipse will take place on Saturday, March 29, before sunrise in parts of the U.S. and Canada.
Q. Where can I see the best view of the eclipse?
A. Coastal areas of northeastern U.S., especially in Maine, will have the best visibility, with up to 86% of the Sun covered.
Q. What is the “double sunrise” effect?
A. In some locations, the eclipse will make the rising Sun look like it appears twice, creating an unusual visual effect.
Q. Is it safe to watch the eclipse with the naked eye?
A. No, looking directly at the Sun without proper eclipse glasses can cause permanent eye damage. Use protective eyewear.
