On March 29, skywatchers in the northeastern United States will have a rare opportunity to witness a stunning celestial phenomenon. A partial solar eclipse will be underway as the sun rises, creating a striking visual effect. In some areas, the moon’s shadow will produce a rare “double sunrise,” an optical illusion where the crescent sun appears as two distinct points on the horizon before fully emerging.
The breathtaking display, known as “solar horns,” will be visible to those in the right place at the right time, provided weather conditions allow for clear skies.
Best viewing locations in the US
The eclipse will be visible across thirteen states, with the best views in New England. Observers in Maine will experience the most dramatic effect, with up to 86% of the sun obscured at sunrise. New Hampshire and Massachusetts will see 57% and 55% obscuration, respectively, while Boston will witness a 43% eclipse.
Further south, the effect will be less pronounced. In New York City, 21% of the sun will be covered, while Philadelphia will see 11% and Rochester 8%. Washington, D.C., will experience minimal coverage at just 1.2%. Coastal locations with unobstructed eastern horizons will provide the clearest view of the eclipse.
Double sunrise effect in select locations
The rare “double sunrise” will be visible in northeastern Maine, southwestern New Brunswick, and eastern Quebec. As the sun rises, the moon’s silhouette will create an illusion of two glowing horns on the horizon. Prime viewing locations include Quoddy Head State Park in Maine, St. Andrews in New Brunswick, and Forestville in Quebec.
Other areas in Canada will also experience significant coverage. Quebec City will see a 72% eclipse, while Moncton and Halifax will experience between 82% and 84% obscuration. Montreal and Ottawa will have 46% and 29% coverage, respectively, while the eclipse will be most pronounced near Akulivik, Quebec, where 91% of the sun will be blocked.
Beyond North America, Reykjavik, Iceland, will witness a 67% eclipse. In Europe, the effect will be more subdued, with London experiencing 31% obscuration, Paris 24%, and Berlin 15%. North Africa, including Morocco, will see 15% to 18% coverage.
Where to watch the eclipse at sunrise
While the “solar horns” will only be visible in select regions of Quebec, New Brunswick, and Maine, many other locations will still see an eclipsed crescent sun at sunrise. The best vantage points will be along coastal areas with a clear eastern horizon, particularly from Cape Cod in Massachusetts to the Canadian border in Maine.
For viewers in Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., an eclipsed sunrise will still be visible, though less dramatic. A location with an unobstructed northeast-facing view will be essential for a clear sighting.
How to safely observe the eclipse
Because this will be a partial eclipse, viewers must take precautions while watching. Protective eyewear, such as certified solar eclipse glasses or telescopes with solar filters, is necessary to prevent eye damage.
Additionally, an unobstructed view of the sunrise—slightly east-northeast—will enhance visibility. Tools like The Photographer’s Ephemeris and Time and Date’s interactive eclipse map can help identify the best locations for viewing.
Understanding the double sunrise phenomenon
While witnessing an eclipsed sunrise is a rare event, select locations will offer an even more extraordinary sight—the “double sunrise.” As the moon’s shadow partially obscures the sun, the emerging crescent will appear split into two glowing points, resembling horns peeking over the horizon.
The next partial solar eclipse will occur on September 21, 2025, visible in Antarctica and New Zealand. North America will experience another partial eclipse on August 12, 2026, while a total solar eclipse will grace the skies over Russia, Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on the same day.
