On March 29, 2025, the Moon will glide across the Sun’s face for a couple of hours, giving much of North and Central America a front-row seat. A partial eclipse will take place, and because the Sun is especially active right now, there’s a good chance we’ll spot sunspots—those dark, magnetic blemishes on the solar surface—while the eclipse dims the Sun just enough for them to stand out.
Think of it like this: it’s the solar system’s version of dimming the lights at a concert so you can finally see the stage crew working behind the scenes. Only this crew is made of sunspots, and they’re massive, magnetic, and kind of moody.
So if you’ve ever wanted to look at the Sun (safely!) and say, “Hey, is that a freckle?”—this might be your moment. Let’s talk about what’s happening, where you can see it, and how to do it without going blind.
What Makes This Eclipse Different
During a partial eclipse, the Moon covers part of the Sun. It doesn’t go completely dark, but the Sun takes on a sharp crescent shape. That’s a great sight on its own. But this year, something more is happening. The Sun is climbing toward its solar maximum, the most active point in its 11-year cycle. This period brings more sunspots—dark, cooler areas caused by intense magnetic activity.
These spots are usually hard to see. The Sun is just too bright. But during an partial eclipse, that brightness dips just enough. With the right viewing method, you might spot one or more sunspots as dark patches crossing the Sun’s face. That combination—a visible eclipse and peak solar activity—makes this event rare.
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When and Where to Watch
The partial eclipse will be visible across much of North and Central America, including the United States, Mexico, Canada, Guatemala, and Honduras. How much of the Sun gets covered depends on your location. Some areas will see a small bite taken out of the Sun. Others may see nearly half of it blocked.
Here are a few sample viewing times:
- New York City: Begins at 12:03 p.m. EDT, peaks at 1:10 p.m., ends at 2:20 p.m.
- Dallas, TX: Begins at 10:56 a.m. CDT, peaks at 12:08 p.m., ends at 1:21 p.m.
- Mexico City: Starts at 10:48 a.m. CST, peaks at 12:09 p.m., ends at 1:33 p.m.
- Toronto, Canada: Begins at 12:05 p.m. EDT, peaks at 1:13 p.m., ends at 2:21 p.m.
Use a tool like TimeandDate.com or NASA’s interactive eclipse map to get local details. The whole thing lasts about two hours, but the peak is when sunspots are easiest to spot. Get outside early so you don’t miss it.
How to Spot Sunspots Safely During a Partial Eclipse
Safety first: never look directly at the Sun without proper protection. Regular sunglasses are not safe. You need certified eclipse glasses that meet ISO 12312-2 safety standards. These reduce the Sun’s brightness enough to let you see its shape—and possibly its sunspots—without harming your eyes.
Sunspots appear as dark blobs or dots on the Sun’s surface. You may not see them right away. Let your eyes adjust. Scan the Sun slowly through your eclipse glasses. Don’t stare for long stretches. Take quick glances, then rest your eyes.
For a clearer view, consider using binoculars or a telescope fitted with a solar filter. These tools offer sharper details and better contrast. Even a simple pinhole projector can help you view the eclipse indirectly. It won’t show sunspots, but it’s great for tracking the Moon’s movement during a partial eclipse.
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
Catching sunspots during an eclipse isn’t about luck—it’s about timing. You need the Sun to be active, the sky to be clear, and the eclipse to be visible from your area. March 29 delivers on all three.
We’re heading toward solar maximum, which should peak in late 2025. That means sunspots are more common now. If the sky cooperates and you’re prepared, this may be your best shot at seeing them. In most eclipses, the Sun is either too bright or too quiet. This time, everything lines up.
If you miss it, don’t worry—another big eclipse is coming soon. A total eclipse will sweep across parts of the U.S. on April 8, 2024. That one will block the Sun completely in some areas. It will offer its own unique spectacle. But for sunspot spotting, the partial eclipse on March 29 may offer a clearer shot.
Get Ready Before the Partial Eclipse Begins
A little prep makes a big difference. If you’ve never used eclipse glasses, try them out before the big day. Get familiar with how the Sun looks through the lenses. If you’re using filtered binoculars or a telescope, test your setup ahead of time. Make sure everything works and is safe to use.
Also, watch the weather. Even light cloud cover can ruin your view. If your local forecast looks bad, consider traveling to a nearby city with clearer skies. Don’t leave that decision until the morning of the eclipse. Plan a day or two ahead.
Pack your glasses, camera (with a solar filter), and anything else you’ll need. Find a spot with an open view of the sky. And remember—partial eclipses move fast. The best moment might only last a few minutes.
A Rare Chance Worth Watching
Eclipses don’t always deliver sunspots. Sunspots don’t always show up during eclipses. But on March 29, everything’s just right and you’re in for a front-row seat to one of nature’s quieter but more fascinating phenomena.
It’s more than a neat sky trick—it’s a rare chance to catch the Sun showing off. You’re not just watching the Moon block some light. You’re witnessing solar storms, magnetic chaos, and giant dark spots doing their thing 93 million miles away.
So grab your gear, mark your calendar, and don’t let this one slip by. No need to be a space nerd (though it helps). Just bring your curiosity—and maybe a snack.
Clear skies and happy viewing.
Read More: Woman Went Partially Blind After Looking at an Eclipse for Only 10 Seconds