Get ready, South Africa! A partial solar eclipse is set to grace our skies. While the best views will be from New Zealand, Samoa and Tonga, we can still catch the spectacle online. Mark your calendars for September 21st, 2025, because the cosmos is putting on a show!
What is a Partial Solar Eclipse?
During a partial solar eclipse, the moon moves between the Earth and the sun, but not in a perfectly aligned way. This means that it only covers a portion of the sun's disk, creating a crescent shape that is truly captivating. It's a beautiful reminder of the celestial dance happening above us.
How to Watch the Eclipse Online in South Africa
Even though we won't see it directly, you can experience the eclipse through a free YouTube livestream hosted by Time and Date in collaboration with the Dunedin Astronomical Society in New Zealand. The broadcast will feature real-time views of each phase, accompanied by expert commentary from astrophysicist Graham Jones and journalist Anne Buckle.
The livestream is scheduled to start at 2 p.m. EDT (1800 GMT), with the maximum eclipse occurring at 3:41 p.m. ET (1941 GMT). Convert that to South African time (SAST) and prepare to witness the event!
Safety First!
Important: Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Even during a partial eclipse, the sun's rays can cause serious damage to your eyes. If you happen to be in the path of totality, make sure to use certified solar viewing glasses.
Get Your Gear Ready (For Next Time!)
While we are watching the livestream this time, consider investing in solar viewing glasses for future eclipses that may be visible from South Africa. Celestron EclipSmart Power Viewers are a great option, offering 2x magnification and ISO 12312-2 certified lenses. They're perfect for sharing the experience with friends and family.
So, set your reminders, grab your snacks, and get ready to witness the partial solar eclipse from the comfort of your own home. Let's hope for clear skies in New Zealand so we can get a great view!