If you love looking up at the sky, 2025 is a big year. There are two solar eclipses and three lunar eclipses that you can watch without traveling far. Below you’ll find the exact dates, where the shadows fall, and quick safety tips.
March 29 – Total Solar Eclipse
The path of totality crosses parts of the Atlantic Ocean, moves over western Africa, and ends in the Arabian Peninsula. Cities like Dakar, Nouakchott and Riyadh get a few minutes of total darkness. If you’re outside the path, you’ll still see a strong partial eclipse.
September 21 – Annular Solar Eclipse
This one starts over the Pacific, sweeps across northern South America and ends in the Atlantic. The annular phase – the “ring of fire” – is visible from places like Quito, Bogota and parts of Brazil. Again, many surrounding areas will see a deep partial eclipse.
Never look at a solar eclipse with the naked eye. Use ISO‑certified eclipse glasses or a solar filter on your binoculars or telescope. Simple cardboard pinhole projectors work too and keep your eyes safe.
March 14 – Total Lunar Eclipse
Also called a “Blood Moon,” this eclipse is fully visible from Europe, Africa, the Americas and the Atlantic. The moon will turn a deep orange and stay in totality for about an hour.
July 8 – Partial Lunar Eclipse
This one is best seen from Asia, Australia and the Pacific. Only a slice of the moon darkens, but it’s still a neat sight.
December 31 – Penumbral Lunar Eclipse
The moon only dips into Earth’s faint penumbral shadow, so the dimming is subtle. It’s visible from North and South America, Europe and Africa – a quiet way to end the year.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye. Just find a dark spot, grab a blanket, and enjoy the show.
To plan your viewing, check local weather forecasts a day before and use free apps like “Eclipse Guide” or “SkyView.” They give real‑time alerts and show exactly when the eclipse starts, peaks and ends for your location.
Want to share the experience? Snap a short video with a smartphone (use a solar filter for the Sun) or take a photo of the moon against a city skyline. Social media loves eclipse shots, and you’ll have a cool memory to look back on.
Remember, the best eclipse moments come when you’re prepared. Mark the dates on your calendar, grab the right glasses, and head outside early. Whether you’re in a big city or a small town, 2025 offers plenty of chances to watch the sky change in real time.
Two eclipses arrive in March 2025, starting with a total lunar eclipse visible across the Americas overnight March 13–14, with totality lasting 1 hour 7 minutes and peaking at 2:58 AM EDT. A solar eclipse follows on March 29. Here’s what will be visible, why the Moon turns red, how to watch safely, and what else to expect from a four-eclipse year.
Science
