Partial Solar Eclipse 2025: When, Where and How to Watch Safely
When and Where the Eclipse Will Appear
Today, September 21, 2025, the Moon will slide across the Sun’s face, creating a spectacular partial solar eclipse. The global start time is 1:29 p.m. EDT (1729 GMT) and the maximum bite happens at 3:41 p.m. EDT (1941 GMT) when roughly 85‑86% of the solar disk is hidden.
If you live on New Zealand’s North Island, the east coast of Australia (from Brisbane up to Cairns), any of the South Pacific islands, or the icy coast of Antarctica, you’ll catch at least a sliver of the event. In Australia the whole thing runs from 6:13 a.m. to 7:36 a.m. local time, while in Antarctica the eclipse stretches from 4:49 a.m. to 6:53 p.m. local time. That means only about 16.6 million people – barely 0.2% of humanity – are in the viewing zone.
Because the eclipse is deep, the sky will dim noticeably, especially near the peak. Photographers often report a subtle orange hue lingering on the horizon, and animal behavior can shift as daylight wanes.
How to Watch Safely and What Else Is Happening in the Sky
Staring at the Sun, even for a few seconds, can scar your retinas permanently. The only reliable way to look directly at the eclipse is with certified solar‑viewing glasses that meet the ISO 12312‑2 standard. If you prefer a telescope, attach a proper solar filter to the front of the instrument – never try to use a filter at the eyepiece. Regular sunglasses, smoked glass, or homemade filters are ineffective and dangerous.
For those who can’t get to the path, many observatories and space agencies will stream the event live. Check the websites of national astronomy societies or the International Astronomical Union for quality feeds.
Tonight, the sky has a bonus gift: Saturn reaches opposition the same day. That means the planet will sit opposite the Sun in the sky, rising around sunset and staying visible all night. With the new moon keeping the sky dark, its rings will sparkle like a distant jewel, perfect for binocular or modest‑size telescope viewing.
And don’t forget, tomorrow is the September 22 autumnal equinox. The alignment can stir up minor geomagnetic activity, and NOAA predicts a low‑level storm that might trigger faint auroras in high‑latitude regions. If you’re in southern New Zealand or the edge of Antarctica, keep an eye on the northern horizon after midnight.
Historically, eclipses have inspired myths and scientific breakthroughs alike. Today they’re also a tourist magnet – towns inside the eclipse track often host festivals, backyard BBQs, and pop‑up planetariums. If you find yourself in a coastal Aussie town on the morning of the eclipse, expect a buzz of visitors, food trucks, and local musicians playing under the dimming sun.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer, a casual stargazer, or just someone who loves a good photo op, today’s eclipse offers a rare combination of drama, science, and community spirit. Pack your safe glasses, bring a cup of coffee, and enjoy the view while it lasts.