A partial solar eclipse will take place on Saturday, March 29, 2025, captivating skywatchers across Italy and Switzerland as it traverses the skies.
According to the Italian Astrophysical Association, the maximum obscuration of the solar disk will occur just a few minutes after noon, at 12:03 PM in Rome. The eclipse will start at 11:30 AM and continue until approximately 1:30 PM, making for an enthralling astronomical show.
In Switzerland, the eclipse will make its first appearance in Geneva at 11:14 AM, followed by Bern at 11:17 AM, and Chur at 11:22 AM. The peak of this celestial event there is expected between 12:02 PM and 12:07 PM. Overall, the entire event will last about 90 minutes, according to the Swiss Astronomical Society.
The visibility of the eclipse will vary significantly across different regions. Unfortunately, cities in southern Italy, including Sicily, Calabria, and Basilicata, will miss out on this spectacular natural occurrence. Even in Campania, the obscuration will be limited, with Naples seeing no more than 1.8 percent of the solar disk covered by the Moon.
In contrast, northern cities such as Milan will enjoy a more pronounced view. The first contact in Milan is expected to begin at 11:21 AM, with the maximum obscuration hitting 20 percent at 12:04 PM. Meanwhile, Rome will have a maximum obscuration of around 7.9 percent.
Experts warn the public about the dangers of looking directly at the sun. As noted by the Swiss Astronomical Society, "To avoid damage to the view, one should never look directly at the sun." Viewers are encouraged to use protective glasses to safely experience this astronomical phenomenon, as looking directly at the sun can lead to severe eye damage or even blindness.
For those who cannot witness the eclipse in person, a live stream will be available on timeanddate.com, starting at 10:30 AM. This presentation will feature feeds from various locations, allowing anyone to enjoy the eclipse virtually.
In Bisuschio, an innovative group of amateur astronomers named after the famous mathematician and astronomer Hypatia will host a gathering between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Roberto Baggio, an expert and builder of sundials, will explain how time is measured through observational astronomy.
Attendees can meet at the square of the municipality of Bisuschio, where they will have the opportunity to observe the eclipse with the association’s telescopes and equipment. Antonio Paganoni, along with fellow astrophotographers from the Astrophotographic Group of Varese, will also document the event.
As this stunning event draws closer, excitement has begun to build. The experience promises to be not only a rare astronomical event but also a chance to engage with local astronomy enthusiasts and gain insights into celestial mechanics. Potential viewers are reminded to prepare adequately, with protective eyewear available for purchase at stores specializing in astronomical equipment.
After the partial eclipse, astronomy enthusiasts have other events to look forward to. The next total solar eclipse in Switzerland is foreseen for September 3, 2081—a day that promises to be marked on many calendars.
Overall, this partial solar eclipse is set to offer a picturesque experience, and both Italy and Switzerland are gearing up for a cosmic weekend that showcases the beauty and wonder of the universe.
