Solar Eclipse 2025: When Will It Be Seen in India and Important Tips on How to Watch Surya Grahan 2025
The Surya Grahan, or Solar Eclipse, is an important celestial event, both culturally and religiously. The first partial solar eclipse of 2025 will occur on March 29, visible in regions including Europe and parts of the US but not in India. For those interested in observing this phenomenon, it is crucial to take safety precautions. The eclipse will begin at 2:21 PM IST and last for 3 hours and 53 minutes globally.
Understanding the Solar Eclipse
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, causing the Sun to be covered partially or completely. In a partial solar eclipse, the Moon only partially covers the Sun, creating a crescent shape in the sky. While this is a fascinating astronomical event, it also holds significance in Vedic astrology, where it is called Surya Grahan. During this time, it is traditionally advised to avoid eating or drinking, with meditation recommended instead.
Solar Eclipse 2025: When and Where to See It
According to NASA, the partial solar eclipse on March 29, 2025, will be visible in the following regions:
- Europe
- Northwestern Africa
- Greenland
- Iceland
- Parts of the northeastern US and eastern Canada
However, this eclipse will not be visible in India.
- In Indian time, the eclipse will start at 2:21 PM IST and end at 6:14 PM IST, reaching its peak at 4:17 PM IST.
- The eclipse will last 3 hours and 53 minutes globally but will not be visible in India, as the Moon’s shadow will not pass over the country.
For US viewers, the eclipse will begin at 4:50 AM EDT, peak at 6:47 AM EDT, and end at 8:43 AM EDT. Some of the states where the eclipse will be visible are:
- New York: 6:35 AM to 7:12 AM
- Pennsylvania: 6:46 AM to 7:08 AM
- New Jersey: 6:43 AM to 7:06 AM
- Virginia: 6:50 AM to 7:03 AM
In Europe, the eclipse will begin around 10 AM GMT and end at 12 Noon GMT, with the peak occurring at 11:03 AM GMT.
Safety Tips on How to Watch the Solar Eclipse
Watching a solar eclipse can be thrilling, but it is crucial to protect your eyes. Here are some essential safety tips for viewing the eclipse:
1. Use Proper Eye Protection
- Always wear ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses to safely view the eclipse.
- Regular sunglasses, even dark ones, do not provide adequate protection.
2. Avoid Viewing Directly Without Eye Protection
- Looking at the Sun without proper protection can cause permanent eye damage or blindness (solar retinopathy).
- Even a few seconds of exposure can be harmful.
3. Use Safe Viewing Methods
- Try using a pinhole projector: Simply make a small hole in a piece of cardboard and project the Sun’s image onto another surface.
- Telescopes, binoculars, or cameras should be fitted with a solar filter before use—never look through them directly without protection.
4. Avoid DIY or Unsafe Filters
- Do not use items like X-ray films, CDs, DVDs, or tinted glass, as they do not block harmful solar radiation.
5. Watch Online or on TV
- If you do not have the proper gear, consider watching live streams from space agencies and observatories to enjoy the event safely from the comfort of your home.
By following these safety measures, you can enjoy the Surya Grahan 2025 without compromising your eye health. Make sure to stay informed and prepared for this spectacular event!
