As much of the Northern Hemisphere prepares to marvel at a partial solar eclipse today, India will remain out of its shadowed path, left to observe from afar through live streams and global coverage.
The celestial phenomenon, which begins shortly after 2.20 pm IST and reaches its peak around 4.17 pm, is visible across vast swathes of Europe, North America, northern Asia, and parts of Africa. But the Moon’s penumbral shadow will skirt entirely clear of the Indian subcontinent.
Astronomy enthusiasts and scientists alike are expected to make the most of the event, with observations focused particularly on the Sun’s corona and light diffraction phenomena. “With proper protection, these eclipses allow us to study atmospheric effects and refine our understanding of solar behaviour,” said an official at the Nehru Planetarium, New Delhi.
India, though not geographically favoured this time, remains culturally absorbed by the eclipse. Many households across the country will observe traditional practices—some refraining from meals or remaining indoors, while others perform rituals rooted in ancient Hindu cosmology. According to myth, the eclipse is caused by Rahu devouring the Sun, only to have it re-emerge moments later.
Also read: Four eclipses in 2025 but only one will be visible in India
Scientific bodies, meanwhile, have reiterated the importance of safe viewing. “From a scientific perspective, there is no harm in eating or drinking during a solar eclipse,” experts noted, quelling fears drawn from superstition. Yet caution remains essential, sunglasses and makeshift filters such as CDs or X-ray films are wholly inadequate for direct solar viewing. Only ISO-certified eclipse glasses or pinhole projection methods are deemed safe.
Although Indian skies will remain unaffected, astronomy clubs and observatories are bridging the gap by hosting virtual viewing sessions and interactive discussions. “We may not see it in the sky, but this is an opportunity to connect with the global scientific community,” a senior astronomer from Bengaluru said.
The next solar eclipse partially visible from parts of India is expected later this year.
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