A partial solar eclipse will be observed in Ontario on Saturday, March 29th. This eclipse is a rare astronomical phenomenon in which the moon covers the sun, and the northern and eastern regions will see up to 93% of the sun covered, creating a dark landscape like night.
In Ontario, the highest eclipse rate is recorded in the Quebec border region at 36.74%, and the rate decreases as you go to the southern and western regions. In Toronto in particular, the area west of Bayview Avenue will be hardly affected by the eclipse, and only some areas east of it will see an eclipse of less than 5%. Therefore, it is likely that it will be difficult to feel the changes in the eclipse in Toronto.
On the other hand, 72% of the sun will be covered in Quebec City, 83% in Halifax, and the northern outskirts will see a spectacular sight of darkness even in broad daylight.
The eclipse begins at 5:30 a.m., but at this time, the sun is below the horizon and cannot be seen with the naked eye. In Toronto, the sun rises around 7:03 a.m., and the maximum eclipse occurs around 7:06 a.m. To properly view this eclipse, it is recommended to find a place with an open east view, and you can observe it more clearly from a window facing east of a high-rise building or an observatory.
The weather is also a variable. According to the current forecast, there is a possibility of clouds in the Toronto area, making it difficult to observe. Therefore, it is also a good idea to check the weather forecast in advance and move to an area with good weather to view the eclipse.
If you miss this opportunity, Ontario will see another partial eclipse on August 12, 2026. However, you will have to wait 1 year and 4 months until the next eclipse, so find a good viewing spot this weekend so that you do not miss this precious opportunity.