"2025's Double Sunrise: Comprehensive Insight into North America's Solar Eclipse"
Holy Shit, A Partial Solar Eclipse is Coming!
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Here's the Lowdown
On March 29, 2025, catch a glimpse of the cosmic showdown as a partial solar eclipse lights up the northeastern U.S., eastern Canada, Western Europe, northwestern Africa, and northern Russia. Although it's not a total solar eclipse, toss on some shades and get ready for some breathtaking views, particularly at a "smiley face" sunrise in North America.
Some Key Facts
The eclipse kicks off in North America, with nearly 94% of the sun hidden by the moon at sunrise in Nunavik, Quebec, Canada. The biggest eclipse will be an impressive 85% in northwestern Maine.
What makes this eclipse special is that it'll be in progress as the sun rises for much of North America. East coasters will witness the rare sight of a partially eclipsed sun ascending over the horizon.
From specific spots in southeastern Quebec, southwestern New Brunswick, and northeastern Maine, preparations for a "double sunrise" are in order. In one memorable location—the beach just south of South Lubec in Maine—an 83% eclipsed "double sunrise" will mark the U.S.-Canada border between Quoddy Head State Park (the easternmost point of the U.S.) and Campobello Island in New Brunswick.
Pro Tip: Invest in some eclipse shades that comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard to avoid blindness. Check out the American Astronomical Society's list of suppliers for safe solar eclipse glasses and solar filters.
When Can I Catch It in the U.S.?
The whole shebang begins at 8:50 UTC (4:50 a.m. EDT) and ends at 12:43 UTC (8:43 a.m. EDT), but the exact timings for sunrise and maximum eclipse will vary depending on your exact location. Head to Timeanddate.com's Eclipse Calculator for a custom schedule and a simulation of what the eclipse will look like.
Where Can I See It in the U.S.?
In the U.S., the eclipse will be visible in 13 states between 6:13 and 7:17 a.m. EDT. These lucky lads are: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia.
Planning Your Viewing Party
While everyone in the region can catch a glimpse of the partial eclipse as it rises into the sky, a partially eclipsed sunrise calls for some thoughtful planning. To get that clear eastern view, hit the beach, take a trip to the lake, or find an open field. Use the interactive Google Map of the eclipse on Xavier Jubier's website or Timeanddate.com to verify local conditions, accessibility, and visibility before mapping out your observation.
The Dish on Past Eclipses
Unlike the total solar eclipse seen across North America on April 8, 2204, this eclipse will showcase only the moon's outer penumbral shadow. But don't fret—another partial solar eclipse will grace North America on August 12, 2026, and the next total solar eclipses will occur in 2033 (Alaska), 2044 (the Dakotas and Montana), and 2045 (across the U.S.).
Deep Dive
To make the most of the partial solar eclipse on March 29, 2025, and especially to witness the "double sunrise" phenomenon, some of the best locations in North America include:
- Northern Maine, New Brunswick, and Quebec:
- These regions offer the best opportunity to witness the "double sunrise." In northern Maine, prepare for a visual extravaganza where the cusps of the eclipsed sun appear separately, taking on a devilish "devil's horns" look [2][3].
- Eastern Shores of New Hampshire and Massachusetts:
- Geographically blessed locations such as these will present a stunning view of a crescent sun rising vertically out of the ocean at coastal sites [2]. If you're in Boston, expect a 43% eclipse, making it an excellent spot for catching a partially eclipsed sunrise [2].
- Atlantic Canada:
- Spots like Moncton, New Brunswick, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, will experience a significant eclipse, with Moncton and Prince Edward Island witnessing about an 84% eclipse [3]. These locales are suitable for observing a partially eclipsed sunrise, assuming Mother Nature cooperates.
Stay Safe, Stay Shady:
- It's crucial to use special solar eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard to prevent blindness. Regular sunglasses won't provide protection against harmful UV and IR rays [1][2][4].
Optimal Viewing Environment:
- A clear ocean horizon and unobstructed sightlines are key to witnessing the "double sunrise" and other eclipsed sunrise effects. Good weather conditions will maximize your eclipse viewing experience [2][3].
- Be sure to mark your calendars! The next partial solar eclipse is coming on March 29, 2025, and it's going to be quite a spectacle.
- If you're interested in where you can catch a glimpse of this celestial event, it will be visible in 13 states across the northeastern U.S., eastern Canada, and even Western Europe.
- To make the most of this eclipse, consider visiting areas like northern Maine, New Brunswick, and Quebec for the unique "double sunrise" phenomenon or coastal locations in New Hampshire and Massachusetts for an astonishing view of a crescent sun rising vertically out of the ocean.
