Surya Grahan 2025: Expected Partial Solar Eclipse and Viewing Safety
On March 29, 2025, a partial solar eclipse will occur, visible in several parts of the USA, Canada, South America, Europe, and Northern Asia, lasting approximately four hours. A notable effect called double sunrise will be observable in certain regions. Safety precautions for viewing include the use of certified solar viewing glasses. The event will not be visible in India.
On March 29, 2025, a significant solar eclipse, referred to as ‘Surya Grahan’ in India, will witness the Moon partially obscuring the Sun. The celestial event, lasting approximately four hours, will not feature perfect alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. Consequently, this results in a partial visibility of the eclipse, which can be observed in various regions, such as parts of the USA, Canada, South America, Europe, and Northern Asia, but remains invisible in India.
The solar eclipse will be experienced at different times globally, with some locations witnessing it at sunrise while others will observe it as late as the afternoon. Notably, certain areas will experience a rare phenomenon known as a double sunrise, wherein the Sun appears to rise twice due to the Moon’s silhouette creating the illusion of two horns on the horizon.
In the United Kingdom, disparate coverage of the eclipse is expected; for instance, Gallan Head in north-west Scotland is anticipated to enjoy approximately 47.9% coverage, while Dover will observe only about 28.1%. Manchester is projected to witness roughly 36.1% of the Sun obscured by the Moon.
To safely view the solar eclipse, individuals must utilize specially designed solar viewing glasses. Regular sunglasses are inadequate, and care should be taken to ensure such glasses are undamaged. NASA advises against using telescopes or cameras with eclipse glasses, as the intense sunlight may lead to eye injury. For those lacking eclipse glasses, indirect viewing methods, such as a pinhole projector, are recommended.
Google has commemorated the celestial event with an interactive animation that is accessible when searching for terms like ‘solar eclipse’ or ‘surya grahan’. This visual representation illustrates the Moon obstructing the Sun’s path, enhancing public engagement with the event.
It is crucial to emphasize that direct observation of the Sun during the solar eclipse is ill-advised without appropriate protective eyewear. NASA strongly recommends certified eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers for safe viewing. Failure to comply may result in severe eye damage.
The eclipse will progress through different time zones, with its kickoff for Indian Standard Time (IST) slated for 2:20 PM, peaking at 4:17 PM, and concluding at 6:13 PM. Though enjoyable for many worldwide, the event will not be observable from India, signifying a missed spectacle for the country.
The partial solar eclipse of March 29, 2025, presents a remarkable celestial event that can be observed in various regions, although not in India. The necessity for safe viewing practices cannot be overstated, alongside the exciting aspects such as the double sunrise phenomenon. As preparations are made for this event, it is imperative for viewers to ensure they have suitable equipment for observing this unique astronomical occurrence.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
