On Saturday, March 29, 2025, a partial solar eclipse will captivate skywatchers across much of Europe, particularly in western France. This celestial event, following a lunar eclipse just two weeks prior, offers a unique opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
The eclipse will begin in the late morning, with the maximum obscuration of the solar disk occurring around noon. In Saint-Brieuc, for instance, the eclipse will start at 10:59 AM, reach its peak at 11:55 AM with approximately 30% of the solar disk obscured, and conclude at 12:53 PM. Other cities in Brittany, such as Quimper, Brest, and Vannes, will enjoy a similar spectacle, with slight variations in obscuration percentages.
What makes this event particularly special is not just the obscuration itself, but the phenomenon known as the "devil's horns." This occurs when the eclipse takes place during sunrise or sunset, creating a striking visual effect where the Sun appears to have two fiery protrusions. However, for those in France, the eclipse will be visible in broad daylight, which means the fiery colors may not be as pronounced.
For those hoping to see the red "devil's horns," traveling to Canada or other locations where the eclipse coincides with sunrise or sunset will be necessary. In regions like Quebec or Montreal, the Sun will be obscured by more than 80%, making for a nearly total eclipse.
The partial solar eclipse will be visible from various parts of the globe, including northeastern North America, Europe, northwestern Africa, and northwestern Russia. In Europe, the best viewing conditions will be found in countries such as Iceland, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, where a larger portion of the Sun will be covered by the Moon.
In the United States, particularly in the northeast, residents will have the chance to witness the eclipse at sunrise. Cities like Presque Isle, Maine, will see the maximum obscuration at 6:21 AM, with 85.40% of the Sun covered. Other notable cities in the U.S. include Boston, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island, where the eclipse will also be visible during the early morning hours.
For those in France, the eclipse will begin around 9:50 AM Paris time, with the maximum obscuration at 11:47 AM and concluding at 1:43 PM. The visibility of the eclipse will vary across the country, with Quimper expected to see over 31% of the solar disk obscured.
As always with solar eclipses, safety is paramount. Observers are strongly advised to use certified eclipse glasses or solar filters to protect their eyes. Looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can cause severe and permanent eye damage. For those lacking proper equipment, indirect viewing methods, such as projecting the Sun’s image through a pinhole onto a flat surface, are recommended.
With the excitement building for this astronomical event, many astronomy clubs and organizations are preparing special viewing events. The French Astronomy Association (AFA) encourages enthusiasts to check their websites for detailed information on viewing times and safe observation practices.
In summary, the partial solar eclipse on March 29, 2025, presents a fantastic opportunity for skywatchers across Europe and beyond. Whether you are in the heart of France or traveling to the best viewing spots in Canada, make sure to prepare adequately to enjoy this rare celestial phenomenon safely.
