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A partial solar eclipse is set to occur on March 29, 2025, when the moon moves in front of the sun. This celestial event will be observable from various regions including Europe, Western Africa, Eastern Canada, and the Northeastern United States. During the eclipse, observers on the ground will see a portion of the sun obscured by the moon. In space, weather satellites will monitor and document the progression of the moon’s shadow as it crosses the Earth’s surface. The phenomenon will begin in the Atlantic Ocean, where the darkest part of the shadow merges with the night side of the planet. Notably, in Nunavik, Quebec, the eclipse will achieve its peak intensity, obscuring 94% of the sun just as it rises.
Satellite Observations of the Eclipse
As detailed in reports, geostationary satellites stand ready to document this solar event as the moon casts its penumbral shadow across the Earth. Key satellites such as Copernicus Sentinel-3, Himawari, and GOES-16 are expected to capture detailed visual representations of the eclipse. The International Space Station (ISS) may also provide a vantage point for this event, with astronauts onboard likely to capture unique photographs of the eclipse as it unfolds.
Movement of the Moon’s Shadow
NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio notes that the moon’s shadow will travel from west to east due to the moon’s orbit, reaching speeds of approximately 3,700 kilometers per hour. This velocity exceeds that of the Earth’s rotation, resulting in the shadow appearing to move contrary to the sun’s progression across the sky. Additionally, the Earth’s curvature influences both the speed and shape of the shadow as it travels through different geographical areas.
Viewing the Eclipse from Space
The satellite systems positioned around 36,000 kilometers above Earth offer optimal conditions for observing this eclipse. These satellites will provide real-time imagery as the moon’s shadow transits across the planet. Additionally, astronauts aboard the International Space Station may capture striking images of the eclipse from their unique perspective in orbit.
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