Partial Solar Eclipse Set to Dazzle Northeastern U.S. This Weekend

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A stunning partial solar eclipse will grace parts of North America this Saturday, March 29, 2025. According to NASA, those in the Northeastern United States will have the best views, as the moon partially obscures the sun in a rare celestial event.

The eclipse will begin before sunrise, with the maximum obscuration occurring shortly after 6:30 a.m. EDT. The most significant views are expected in Maine and eastern Canada, where participants can witness up to 64% coverage of the sun, while Washington, D.C., should see a mere 1% coverage. The event will end around 8:43 a.m. EDT.

“If you’re in the Northeast and the weather cooperates, you’re in for a treat,” said Dr. Kelly Beatty, an astronomy editor at Sky & Telescope. “This is a fantastic opportunity for early risers to gaze at a crescent-shaped sun.”

NASA’s map shows that visibility extends from Washington, D.C., to Maine and parts of Canada. Areas across the Atlantic Ocean, including portions of Africa and Europe, will also experience the eclipse. Locations like New Brunswick and Quebec are expected to witness a striking effect, with the sun appearing to rise with two prominent “horns.”

The partial eclipse will occur when the moon passes between Earth and the sun but does not align perfectly, causing only a portion of the sun to be obscured. For safety, viewers must wear proper eclipse glasses or use handheld solar viewers, as regular sunglasses offer inadequate protection against harmful solar rays.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology warns that looking directly at the sun during an eclipse can lead to serious eye injuries, including burns and permanent vision loss. They recommend purchasing ISO 12312-2 compliant eclipse glasses from reputable suppliers.

Dr. Beatty also noted the importance of preparation. “It’s crucial to check your glasses for any scratches or damage before using them,” he added. “If you’re not sure your glasses are safe, there are other ways to view the eclipse indirectly, such as through pinhole projection.”

Cloud cover may pose challenges for viewing in some regions. Current forecasts predict significant cloud cover across much of the Northeast on the morning of the eclipse, impacting visibility. Nevertheless, Washington, D.C., appears to have a clearer forecast.

While this partial solar eclipse will be mesmerizing, it’s vital to note that the next opportunities to witness similar events won’t occur in the U.S. until 2026. The next partial solar eclipse will take place on September 21 but will not be visible from North America.

For many across the nation, this weekend serves as a thrilling reminder of the wonders of astronomy, marking another chance to connect with the night sky.