A rare celestial event is set to grace the skies on Saturday, March 29, as a partial solar eclipse creates the illusion of a “double sunrise” in parts of the northeastern United States. Millions across the globe will have the opportunity to witness the partial eclipse, the only one visible from the U.S. this year.
A Celestial Show for 814 Million People
This astronomical event is significant as it follows a total lunar eclipse just two weeks ago. NASA estimates that approximately 814 million people—nearly 10% of the world’s population—will be able to view the partial eclipse in some form. Unlike a total solar eclipse, where the Moon completely obscures the Sun, a partial eclipse leaves a crescent-shaped Sun in the sky.
Observers across the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of the U.S., Canada, Europe, Africa, northern Asia, and regions of South America, Greenland, Iceland, and the Arctic Ocean, will have the chance to witness this phenomenon.
Where to See the Best Views
The visibility of the eclipse depends largely on location and weather conditions. Coastal New England is expected to offer some of the most striking visuals.
- Maine: Up to 86% of the Sun will be eclipsed at sunrise, providing one of the most dramatic views in the U.S.
- New Hampshire: The eclipse will obscure 57% of the Sun.
- Massachusetts: Around 55% of the Sun will be covered.
- New York City: The event will peak at 22% coverage.
- Philadelphia: The eclipse will cover 12% of the Sun.
- Washington, D.C.: A minimal 1% of the Sun will be covered.
Those in coastal locations in northern Maine, New Brunswick, and Quebec may witness a particularly rare spectacle—the Sun rising with “devil’s horns,” caused by the Moon blocking the lower part of the Sun.
What Is a “Double Sunrise”?
The most intriguing part of this eclipse is the illusion of a “double sunrise.” This occurs because the eclipse happens as the Sun is rising in certain locations. Instead of the usual golden orb appearing over the horizon, the Sun will emerge with part of it obscured, resembling two separate peaks of light.
For those in the right position, it may seem like the Sun is rising twice—once in its normal form and again as the shadowed portion of the Sun clears. This rare optical illusion is best seen from select coastal areas of northern Maine, New Brunswick, and Quebec.
When to Look Up
The eclipse will begin before sunrise in the U.S. and Canada, with timing varying by location. NASA has provided expected time frames:
| City | Start Time | Peak Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Portland, ME | 6:27 AM | 64% at 7:10 AM |
| Boston, MA | 6:31 AM | 43% at 7:07 AM |
| New York, NY | 6:44 AM | 22% at 7:04 AM |
| Philadelphia, PA | 6:49 AM | 12% at 7:03 AM |
| Baltimore, MD | 6:55 AM | 3% at 7:02 AM |
| Washington, D.C. | 6:56 AM | 1% at 7:01 AM |
Outside the U.S., western Europe and northwestern Africa will see the eclipse in mid-to-late morning, while eastern Europe and northern Asia will experience it in the afternoon or early evening.
Protect Your Eyes—Eclipse Glasses Are a Must
While the partial eclipse will be breathtaking, it poses serious risks to unprotected eyes. NASA warns that looking directly at the Sun, even when partially eclipsed, can cause permanent retinal damage.
Proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector, is essential for safe viewing. Unlike during a total solar eclipse, where brief direct viewing is possible, a partial eclipse requires constant protective measures.
As millions prepare to witness this celestial event, it serves as a reminder of the wonders of space and the delicate balance of cosmic alignments. For those in the best viewing locations, this Saturday morning will be one to remember.
