September Partial Solar Eclipse Offers Rare Southern Sky Show

A partial solar eclipse will occur on September 21, 2025. This astronomical event will be visible primarily from New Zealand and Antarctica. The eclipse arrives just one day before the autumnal equinox. Skywatchers in these regions will see the Moon cover up to 86% of the Sun.

According to astronomical forecasts, the best views will be from southern New Zealand and Antarctic research stations. This event marks the final solar eclipse of 2025. Most of the world’s population will not see this event directly due to its remote visibility path.

Viewing Details For The September Solar Eclipse

The eclipse will reach its maximum point at approximately 19:43 UTC. This timing favors viewers in the Southern Hemisphere. New Zealand will experience the eclipse during late evening hours.

Antarctica’s research stations will have front-row seats. Scientists stationed there will enjoy near-total coverage. The eclipse’s path avoids any major land masses besides these areas.

Most continents will miss this celestial event entirely. North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa won’t see any coverage. South America might catch a minimal partial glimpse from its southern tip.

How To Safely Watch The Remote Eclipse Event

Proper eye protection remains essential for direct viewing. Certified solar eclipse glasses must be used to prevent eye damage. Regular sunglasses cannot block harmful solar radiation.

For those outside the visibility zone, live streams will provide access. Space.com and TimeandDate.com will broadcast the event online. Their coverage will include telescope views and expert commentary.

Photographers seeking to capture the event need special solar filters. These filters protect camera sensors from intense sunlight. Without proper equipment, permanent damage to both eyes and cameras can occur.

Thought you’d like to know

What time does the September 2025 eclipse start?

The partial solar eclipse begins at approximately 18:49 UTC on September 21, 2025. Maximum coverage occurs around 19:43 UTC. The entire event lasts about two hours from start to finish.

Why is this eclipse only visible from limited locations?

Solar eclipses follow specific paths across Earth’s surface. The September 2025 eclipse path primarily crosses remote southern regions. Eclipse paths vary due to the Moon’s shadow trajectory.

When is the next total solar eclipse after this event?

The next total solar eclipse occurs on August 12, 2026. It will be visible from Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and Russia. This will be the first total eclipse since April 2024.

Can I see the eclipse from Australia or South America?

Most of Australia will not see this eclipse. Southern South America might experience minimal partial coverage. The best views are reserved for New Zealand and Antarctica.

How often do partial solar eclipses occur?

Partial solar eclipses happen about 2-5 times annually. They occur more frequently than total eclipses. Some years feature up to five solar eclipses of various types.

Trusted Sources: NASA, Reuters, Space.com, TimeandDate.com, American Astronomical Society