Solar eclipse 2025: Will ‘surya grahan’ be on September 20, 21, or 23? Timings, visibility and everything you need to know

As 2025 draws to a close, the skies are preparing a spectacular farewell gift: a solar eclipse. Throughout history, eclipses were often feared as ominous signs, symbolizing change or forewarning disasters. Today, however, they are celebrated as awe-inspiring natural phenomena that bring people together in wonder. Observers tilt their heads skyward, witnessing the Sun and Moon briefly align in a cosmic dance.The pressing question for astronomy enthusiasts is simple: when will this solar eclipse occur? Let’s explore this celestial event in detail, including the timing, visibility, why the dates are often confusing, and the unique aspects that make it stand out.The final solar eclipse of 2025 will occur on Sunday, 21 September 2025. Unlike total eclipses that completely block the Sun, this event will be a partial solar eclipse, meaning the Moon will only obscure a portion of the Sun. The result is a stunning crescent-shaped Sun, creating a surreal and ethereal sky scene.What makes this eclipse particularly special is its coincidence with the September equinox, a moment when day and night are almost equal globally. This rare alignment not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds a symbolic layer of balance and harmony to the event.Many people wonder why solar eclipse dates, especially for events like Surya Grahan, often appear inconsistent. The confusion arises due to several factors:Understanding these factors clears up the confusion: there is only one eclipse, but its date can appear different across regions.The eclipse will be visible for several hours in regions across the Southern Hemisphere, offering ample opportunity for observation. According to EarthSky.org, the event’s schedule in UTC and Indian Standard Time (IST) is as follows:For observers in India and most of South Asia, the eclipse will occur overnight, meaning it won’t be visible without online streaming.This year’s eclipse is primarily visible in the Southern Hemisphere, including regions of Australia, New Zealand, Pacific islands, and Antarctica.In Australia, the eclipse will be visible between 06:13 and 07:36 local time. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, observers can catch the eclipse from 05:41 to 08:36 NZST.Several island nations, including American Samoa, Samoa, Niue, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Wallis and Futuna, and the Cook Islands, will witness the eclipse during the early morning, with times ranging from 06:29 SST to 10:04 TAHT.In French Polynesia, the eclipse will occur from 07:41 TAHT to 10:04 TAHT, while Kiribati will experience it between 06:38 PHOT and 08:56 LINT.Countries such as Fiji, Vanuatu, Norfolk Island, New Caledonia, and the Solomon Islands will also see partial coverage lasting between one and two hours, depending on their exact location.Antarctica will experience the longest duration, from 04:49 DDUT to 18:53 CLST. This provides a rare opportunity for scientists stationed there to study the eclipse in a largely undisturbed environment, combining astronomical observations with research on atmospheric and solar effects.Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily casting a shadow on Earth. What sets this particular eclipse apart is its proximity to the September equinox, when Earth’s axis allows for nearly equal day and night lengths globally.The partial eclipse will produce a crescent-shaped Sun, a visually stunning spectacle for photographers and skywatchers. It also serves as a reminder of cosmic harmony, demonstrating the precision and elegance of celestial mechanics.Many regions in the Northern Hemisphere will not witness this eclipse. Countries like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Afghanistan, North America, and parts of South America fall outside its visibility range.Fortunately, modern technology allows global audiences to watch live streams of the eclipse. Observatories and astronomy channels will provide real-time coverage, ensuring no one misses the spectacle entirely.Although the September 21 solar eclipse will not be total, its alignment with the equinox, widespread visibility across the Southern Hemisphere, and extended duration make it a remarkable celestial event.For those who witness it in person, the sight of the crescent Sun will be unforgettable. For others, online streaming provides a window into this cosmic marvel. This Surya Grahan 2025 reminds us that the universe constantly inspires wonder, blending light and shadow in a captivating display of natural precision.Also Read | Warning! Solar flares surge to 108 million degrees, threatening satellites, astronauts, and global technology