Editor's note: Wow! The eclipse put on a fantastic show for those lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time. Read our partial eclipse wrap story here and enjoy some marvelous eclipse photos!
A partial solar eclipse is happening this morning (March 29), offering skywatchers a chance to see the moon partially cover the sun.
Globally, the eclipse begins at 4:50 a.m. EDT (0850 GMT), reaching maximum coverage at 6:47 a.m. EDT (1047 GMT). Exact visibility and timing depend on your location.
If you're unable to watch the partial solar eclipse in person, don't worry, you can watch all the action unfold live here on Space.com courtesy of Timeanddate and keep up to date with the latest solar eclipse progress with our solar eclipse live blog.
What is a partial solar eclipse?
A partial solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, blocking a portion of the solar disk from view. It can look like the moon has taken a "bite" out of the sun.
What time is the partial solar eclipse?
The exact timing of the eclipse depends on your location. For those in eastern North America, it will occur around sunrise; for those across Europe, it will take place mid-morning.
Related: What time is the partial solar eclipse tomorrow?
Country | Start of Eclipse (Local Time) | End of Eclipse (Local Time) |
|---|---|---|
Canada | 6:56 a.m. | 8:20 a.m. |
France | 10:55 a.m. | 1:01 p.m. |
Ireland | 9:54 a.m. | 12:03 p.m. |
Norway | 11:12 a.m. | 1:35 p.m. |
United Kingdom | 9:56 a.m. | 12:14 p.m. |
United States | 6:13 a.m. | 7:17 a.m. |
Where can I see the partial solar eclipse?
The best views of the solar eclipse whereby a majority of the sun will be obscured by the moon will be found in extreme eastern Canada and the northeastern U.S, where a crescent sun will rise dramatically over the horizon. Locations such as New Brunswick, northern Quebec, and Maine will experience an especially striking effect, with a pair of solar "horns" briefly appearing as the sun emerges.
Related: Where will the partial solar eclipse be visible this weekend?
How can I watch the partial solar eclipse?
The partial solar eclipse can be viewed in person from locations within the path of the eclipse. Remember: It is NEVER safe to look directly at the sun during a partial solar eclipse without suitable eye protection. Make sure to use solar eclipse glasses or a solar filter for telescopes or binoculars. A pinhole projector is also a great option if you don't have specialized equipment, as you can easily make one with some basic items from around your house.
Our how to view the sun safely guide tells you everything you need to know about safe solar viewing and what to look out for on the surface of the sun!
And if you're unable to catch the solar eclipse in person you can enjoy all the action from the comfort of your home via these solar eclipse livestreams. We will also be updating our solar eclipse live blog throughout the event, bringing you the best views and comments from those on the ground and watching online.
When is the next solar eclipse?
After March 29, the next solar eclipse will be another partial solar eclipse on Sept. 21, 2025. It will be visible from remote areas of the Southern Hemisphere.
Editor's note: If you snap a photo of the solar eclipse and would like to share it with Space.com's readers, send your photo(s), comments, and your name and location to spacephotos@space.com.
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