Second Solar Eclipse in as Many Years Might Peak Through the Clouds in the Maritimes Early Saturday

Those in the Maritimes who witnessed last spring’s solar eclipse, and even those who didn’t, might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a partial eclipse as the Sun rises on Saturday, March 29th. The eclipse will actually begin before the sunrise and the Sun will already be partially covered as it begins to rise, so a clear view of the eastern horizon will be necessary.

The odds of the eclipse being visible, though, will be dependent on whether the clouds cooperate and we get some clear skies Saturday morning. Unfortunately, the eclipse will likely not be visible for most of the region due to cloud cover ahead of snow moving in from the west later in the day.

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Timing and Coverage

While parts of the New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island experienced totality in 2024, that will not be the case this time around. The good news, however, is that the entire region will still significant sun coverage in the 80%-90% range so that if the eclipse ends up being visible in your area, you’ll be in for a treat!

Solar Eclipse Timing Across New Brunswick

Location	Max Coverage	Sunrise	Maximum	Partial Ends
Bathurst	86.15%	7:06 AM	7:22 AM	8:18 AM
Edmundston	86.10%	7:17 AM	7:22 AM	8:17 AM
Fredericton	84.56%	7:11 AM	7:19 AM	8:14 AM
Miramichi	85.56%	7:06 AM	7:21 AM	8:17 AM
Moncton	84.53%	7:04 AM	7:19 AM	8:15 AM
Saint John	83.76%	7:09 AM	7:18 PM	8:13 AM

Solar Eclipse Timing Across Nova Scotia

Location	Max Coverage	Sunrise	Maximum	Partial Ends
Amherst	84.20%	7:02 AM	7:19 AM	8:15 AM
Antigonish	83.63%	6:53 AM	7:19 AM	8:15 AM
Bridgewater	82.61%	7:04 AM	7:17 AM	8:12 AM
Halifax	82.82%	7:00 AM	7:17 AM	8:13 AM
Kentville	83.40%	7:03 AM	7:18 AM	8:13 AM
New Glasgow	83.71%	6:56 AM	7:19 PM	8:15 AM
Sydney	83.79%	6:46 AM	7:20 PM	8:16 AM
Truro	83.58%	6:59 AM	7:18 PM	8:14 AM
Yarmouth	82.11%	7:10 AM	7:16 PM	8:11 AM

Solar Eclipse Timing Across Prince Edward Island

Location	Max Coverage	Sunrise	Maximum	Partial Ends
Alberton	85.19%	7:00 AM	7:21 AM	8:17 AM
Charlottetown	84.43%	6:57 AM	7:20 AM	8:16 AM
Kensington	84.76%	6:59 AM	7:20 AM	8:16 AM
Montague	84.33%	6:55 AM	7:19 AM	8:16 AM
Souris	84.44%	6:53 AM	7:20 PM	8:16 AM
Summerside	84.70%	7:00 AM	7:20 PM	8:16 AM

For specific eclipse coverage and timing in your location, you can go to timeanddate.com to find detailed information.

Safety Measures

Safety is paramount when viewing any solar eclipse, even a partial one. To ensure a safe and memorable experience, follow these crucial precautions:

• Solar Viewing Glasses: Never attempt to observe the eclipse with the naked eye. Only use certified solar viewing glasses or eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 certification, specifically designed to protect your eyes from the Sun's harmful radiation.

• Pinhole Projection: If eclipse glasses are unavailable, create a pinhole projector using common materials like cardboard. This indirect method allows you to project the eclipse safely onto a surface for viewing.

• Telescopes and Binoculars: If using telescopes or binoculars, ensure they are equipped with proper solar filters to safeguard your eyes. Never aim them directly at the Sun without these protective measures.

• Online Streaming: For those unable to view the eclipse in person or seeking a risk-free option, numerous reputable sources will provide live streaming of the event.

• Local Eclipse Events: Consider joining local astronomy clubs or observatories hosting eclipse-viewing gatherings. These events offer expert guidance and a shared sense of community.

We’re going to continue to keep an eye on the cloud cover situation for Saturday over the coming days and will post any updates.

Total Lunar Eclipse Alert: Rare Blood Moon Visible Across Ontario on Thursday Night

Image of a total lunar eclipse/blood moon

On the night of Thursday, March 13, 2025, into the early hours of Friday, March 14, Ontario residents will have the opportunity to witness a spectacular total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a “Blood Moon.” 

What to Expect

During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth comes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that gives the Moon a reddish hue. This phenomenon occurs as Earth’s atmosphere filters out shorter-wavelength blue light, allowing the longer-wavelength red and orange light to illuminate the Moon’s surface.

Key Times for Ontario

Eastern Daylight Time

• Start of Penumbral Eclipse: 11:57 PM on Thursday, March 13

• Start of Totality: 2:26 AM on Friday, March 14

• Maximum Eclipse: 2:58 AM

• End of Totality: 3:31 AM

• End of Penumbral Eclipse: 6:00 AM

The totality phase, when the Moon is entirely within Earth’s shadow and appears deepest red, will last approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. 

Viewing Tips

• No Special Equipment Needed: Lunar eclipses are safe to observe with the naked eye. However, using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience by providing a closer view of the Moon’s surface.

• Optimal Viewing Locations: Find a dark area away from city lights to reduce light pollution. Elevated spots with an unobstructed view of the sky are ideal.

• Weather Considerations: Check local weather forecasts to ensure clear skies during the eclipse. Partly cloudy conditions may still allow for intermittent viewing.

TOTAL CLOUD COVER ON FRIDAY MORNING - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Viewing Conditions Across Ontario

• Southern Ontario: Forecasts indicate mostly clear skies throughout the eclipse period, providing optimal viewing conditions. However, some areas may experience pockets of partly cloudy skies, so it’s advisable to monitor local forecasts as the event approaches. Download our free app for your local forecast.

• Northern Ontario: Regions, especially Northwestern Ontario and areas around Lake Superior, may encounter heavy cloud cover, potentially obstructing the view of the eclipse. Residents in these areas should check local weather updates for the most accurate information.

Photography Tips

• Use a Tripod: To capture clear images, stabilize your camera to prevent blurring during long exposures.

• Adjust Exposure Settings: Since the Moon will be dimmer during totality, longer exposure times and higher ISO settings may be necessary.

• Practice Prior to the Eclipse: Familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings and practice shooting the Moon on clear nights leading up to the event.