Following the lunar eclipse on September 7th, another notable astronomical event is approaching: the second and final solar eclipse of 2025. This will be a partial solar eclipse, set to occur on September 21st. Solar eclipses are significant astronomical events that carry cultural and religious weight across many cultures, including India, where specific practices and rituals are often followed during these events.
A solar eclipse happens when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun on a new moon, with all three celestial bodies aligned. A partial solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth but the Sun, Moon, and Earth are not perfectly lined up. The eclipse will not be visible from India as it will occur during the night in India. The areas that will experience the partial solar eclipse include Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, and numerous islands in the Pacific Ocean. The eclipse will begin at 17:29 UTC (22:59 IST), reach its maximum at 19:41 UTC (01:11 IST on September 22), and conclude at 21:53 UTC (03:23 IST on September 22).