News — DURHAM, N.H.—(March 25, 2025)—In the wee hours of Saturday morning, March 29, all across northeastern United States and Canada, people will be treated to a rare partial eclipse as the moon passes between the Earth and the sun during sunrise. John Gianforte, director of the University of New Hampshire’s observatory and Extension associate professor of space science education can speak about the uniqueness of this event, that New England will have some of the best views and how to watch the event safely.
“It may only be a partial eclipse but this one is special because it will begin just as the sun is starting to rise over the horizon so it should offer a stunning crescent shaped sun during sunrise,” said Gianforte. “Unlike the total eclipse we experienced in 2024, this one will only partially cover the sun still offering a small slice of the sun to view. Many people in the Northeast should be able to access a good spot where they can catch daybreak, especially those not far from the coast or in higher elevations.”
Even though it is a partial eclipse, Gianforte warns that it is never safe to look directly at the sun and people should always wear special eclipse glasses to protect their eyes. Some of the best viewing will be at the crack of dawn along the eastern horizon in some of the most northern states in New England and into Canada.
Always with an eye to the sky, Gianforte is passionate about the moon, the sun and the stars. John teaches astronomy and physics and his field of study is the characterization of exoplanetary systems. His work includes observing and recording transits of exoplanets as they pass in front of their parent stars. An expert on viewing solar eclipses, he is a frequent guest on the Weather Channel and has traveled around the world to experience some of the most breathtaking solar eclipses.
Gianforte can be reached at [email protected] or (603) 862-2829.
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