Solar Eclipse 2025 highlights: All about today's Surya Grahan-- pictures, tips to watch, interesting facts

"We can't usually see the corona-- the Sun's outer atmosphere-- because Sun's surface below it is so much brighter. But during a total solar eclipse, the corona emerges, offering unique opportunities to study it," reads a statement on NASA's website.

"Lunar eclipses occur during the full moon phase, and solar eclipses occur during the new moon phase," as per NASA.

1. Protect your eyes
If you accidentally looked at the Sun without proper protection during the event and notice discomfort or vision issues, consult an eye doctor immediately. Most importantly, store your eclipse glasses safely for future use—they often last through multiple eclipses if kept in good condition.

2. Check the photos and videos
Once it’s over, go through the pictures or videos you captured. You’ll likely find fascinating details you didn’t notice in real time. Share them with friends, post them online, or even keep them as part of a family memory album.

3. Learn from the experience
Did your location have cloudy skies? Did you wish you had better equipment? Take notes so you can improve your eclipse experience next time. These lessons will help you plan better for future celestial events.

4. Reflect on the wonder
A solar eclipse reminds us how vast and mysterious the universe is. Take some time afterward to reflect—maybe journal about your experience or share your feelings with loved ones. Many people describe it as humbling and spiritual.

5. Plan for the next eclipse
Solar eclipses don’t happen every day, but knowing when and where the next one will occur can give you something to look forward to. Mark your calendar, especially if there’s a total eclipse in your country. Planning early increases your chances of witnessing this rare event again.

As per NASA, the world will withness two solar eclipses in 2026:
1. Annular Solar Eclipse on 17 February, 2026 which "will be visible in Antarctica, and a partial eclipse will be visible in Antarctica, Africa, South America, Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Indian Ocean".
2. Total Solar Eclipse on 12 August, 2026 which "will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia, and a small area of Portugal, while a partial eclipse will be visible in Europe, Africa, North America, the Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Ocean, and Pacific Ocean".

The next Solar Eclipse will take place on 17 February, 2026, and it will be an Annular Solar Eclipse. It will be visible in "Antarctica, and a partial eclipse will be visible in Antarctica, Africa, South America, Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Indian Ocean," as per NASA.

1. Use eye protection
During the partial phases, never look at the Sun without eclipse glasses or a solar filter as it could damage your eyes. Only if you are within the path of totality and the Sun is completely covered can you briefly view it with the naked eye. The moment totality ends, put your glasses back on immediately.

2. Observe the changing environment
The magic of a solar eclipse is not just in the sky. Notice how the temperature drops, birds quiet down, and shadows take on a crescent shape. These small details make the event unforgettable and connect you more deeply to nature.

3. Capture the moment
It’s tempting to spend the entire eclipse behind your camera or phone, but remember to experience it directly too. If photographing, use proper solar filters on your camera lens. If not, simply relax, look around, and soak in the rare atmosphere of twilight in the middle of the day.

4. Share the experience with others
Solar eclipses bring people together. You can plan to watch this beautiful event with your friends and family, and turn it into a gathering. For those living afar or in different time zones, they can even plan to stream it online and make it a memorable moment for all.

5. Stay calm and present
Many people describe the eclipse as a deeply emotional experience—it’s not just science, it’s awe-inspiring. Take a deep breath, silence distractions, and simply appreciate the beauty of the universe unfolding before you.

The Partial Solar Eclipse on September 21/ 22, 2025 is of 4 hours, 41 minutes and it is visible in the Southern Hemisphere.

During a partial solar eclipse, never look at the Sun directly, as it can cause permanent eye damage. Use certified solar viewing glasses or handheld solar filters. Regular sunglasses don’t provide protection. Indirect methods like pinhole projectors or live streams are safe alternatives. Protecting your eyes ensures an enjoyable eclipse experience.

"Even during a partial or annular eclipse, or during the partial phases of a total eclipse, the Sun will still be very bright. If you are watching an entire eclipse, you may be in direct sunlight for hours. Remember to wear sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing to prevent skin damage," reads an article on NASA's website.

The last Solar Eclipse of 2025 on September 21/ 22 is a Partial Solar Eclipse. It happens when the Moon covers only part of the Sun, creating a crescent-shaped sunlight and partial shadow over Earth.

1. Total Solar Eclipse
Occurs when the Moon completely blocks the Sun, plunging the day into darkness briefly, revealing the glowing solar corona.

2. Partial Solar Eclipse
Happens when the Moon covers only part of the Sun, creating a crescent-shaped sunlight and partial shadow over Earth.

3. Annular Solar Eclipse
The Moon covers the Sun’s center, leaving a bright “ring of fire” around the edges—stunning yet incomplete coverage.

4. Hybrid Solar Eclipse
Rare eclipse shifting between total and annular depending on viewing location, offering both phenomena during a single event.

Pisces natives encounter professional and personal challenges. Disputes disturb partnerships, married life feels strained. Patience and kind words preserve harmony.

NOTE: All predictions are a summarisation of astrologer Samir Jain's prophecy

Aquarius natives face difficulties. Projects may halt, arguments risk legal issues. Opponents humiliate, health weakens. Stay calm, avoid unnecessary disputes.

Capricorns face challenges. Success demands effort. Differences with friends or children arise. Stress pushes toward spirituality, offering balance and peace.

Sagittarius natives thrive with promotions, recognition, and financial gains. Superiors support you, while businesspeople may secure big contracts, driving expansion.

Scorpios benefit positively. Relocation possible, new income opens, stuck money returns. Married couples hear good news, students excel academically.

Libra natives may see sudden financial losses. Avoid disputes, conspiracies, or reckless driving. Opponents may provoke, patience ensures smoother outcomes.

Virgos may struggle with confidence. Decision-making feels difficult, health concerns surface, and stress builds. Best to delay new projects temporarily.

Leos should remain cautious. Family disagreements may arise, particularly about money. Control speech, as delays and reduced recognition could trouble.

Cancer natives enjoy success. Efforts succeed, children bring joy, opponents weaken. Friends support, reputation and respect from superiors steadily increase.

Geminis may feel restless, delaying progress. Financial losses linked to property possible. Family conflicts may rise, patience and balance are essential.

Challenges await Taurus natives. Avoid gambling, risky investments, and hasty contracts. Children’s health needs care, workplace differences may disturb peace.

This eclipse favors Aries natives, bringing workplace recognition, promotions, improved health, and growing respect in society. Enemies remain weak.

Here are the following holy books that people can recite during the Surya Grahan tonight:
1. Hanuman Chalisa..!!
2. Sundar Kand..!!
3. Ramacharitmanas or Chaupayee..!!
4. Bhagavad Gita..!!
5. Gajendra Moksha Paath..!!
6. Shiva Chalisa..!!

The Solar Eclipse (Surya Grahan) will begin at around 11 PM IST on September 21 and it will go on till 3.30 AM on September 22. Here are some mantras one can chant during Surya Grahan, as per astrology:
1. Om Namah Shivaye..!!
2. Om Gan Ganpataye Namah..!!
3. Om Ghrani Suryaye Namah..!!
4. Om Namo Bhagvate Vasudevaye..!!
5. Om Trayambhakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam Urvarukmiv Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Mamritat..!!
6. Ugram Veeraam Mahavishnum Jwalantam Sarvato Mukham Narasimhaam Bheeshnam Bhadram Mrityor Mrityum Namamyaham..!!

According to Space.com, Time and Date will livestream the September 21–22 solar eclipse on YouTube in collaboration with the Dunedin Astronomical Society, New Zealand. Featuring real-time visuals with expert commentary, the broadcast begins in India at 11:30 PM IST, offering viewers a safe way to experience the celestial event.

The next solar eclipse will occur on February 17, 2026, less than six months away, as per TimeandDate.

Unlike the September 2025 partial eclipse, it will be an annular eclipse, visible from southern South America, southern Africa, parts of the Indian Ocean, and Antarctica, offering a spectacular “ring of fire” phenomenon.

The partial solar eclipse on September 21, 2025, won’t be visible in the United States or Canada, where viewers can only watch live streams or wait for the next eclipse on August 12, 2026. Australia offers prime viewing, with eastern and southern cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Hobart witnessing dramatic partial eclipses on the morning of September 22.

During a solar eclipse, avoid traveling long distances or venturing into unsafe areas, especially for children, elderly, or pregnant women. Stay indoors or in shaded locations, plan routes carefully, and carry essentials like water and snacks. Prioritize safety over curiosity, and never look directly at the Sun while traveling.

In India, it is customary to take a bath after an eclipse to cleanse the body of supposed impurities in the surrounding air. While science does not support this belief, bathing helps relieve stress and maintain hygiene. Eclipses are considered spiritually potent, sometimes linked to pregnancy risks, but guidelines mainly focus on general health and safety.

The only proven eclipse risk is eye damage from direct sun exposure, irrelevant in India’s timing. Rituals continue for psychological comfort and community influence, supporting pregnant women’s overall wellbeing and safety.

1. Stay indoors
Remain inside to avoid sun exposure and negative energies.

2. Cover windows with curtains
Curtains block UV rays and follow traditional eclipse precautions.

3. Avoid sharp objects
Minimize using knives or scissors to prevent accidents during pregnancy.

These include:
1. Stay hydrated
Drink water, juices, or coconut water to prevent dehydration and fatigue.

2. Maintain a stress-free environment
Create calm surroundings to reduce anxiety and protect mother, baby.

3. Avoid direct exposure to the sun rays
Stay indoors or shaded; protect skin and eyes from damage.

4. Avoid physical strains
Limit heavy chores, lifting, and long standing to prevent fatigue.

5. Consult a doctor regarding any concerns
Seek professional guidance to clarify doubts and ensure pregnancy safety.

In India, pregnant women follow eclipse restrictions like staying indoors and resting. Though not medically proven, these cultural practices symbolize protection. Modern focus lies on nutrition, hydration, mental health, and safe eye practices.

In India, Surya Grahan carries many traditional do’s and don’ts, especially for children, elders, and expectant mothers. Passed through generations, eclipses are often viewed as negative cosmic influences. With the upcoming solar eclipse, these age-old beliefs are being revisited, sparking fresh conversations between tradition, caution, and modern science.

"Following this ritual calms the Sun in your horoscope, reduces pitru dosh (ancestral imbalances), boosts health and energy, and minimizes the negative effects of the eclipse," Astro Arun Pandit added in the post.

"STEP 4️. After the recitation
• Offer water to the picture of Lord Surya (if the Sun is not visible during the eclipse, the recitation itself is effective).
• Offer Tulsi leaves and red flowers.
• Take a vow in your heart: “May Lord Surya purify my planets.”"

"STEP 3. During the eclipse
• Light the lamp and offer prayers to Lord Surya.
• Begin with the Surya mantra:
“Om Suryaya Namah” (11 times).
• Then recite the Aditya Hriday Stotram."

"STEP 2. Prepare the items
• A lamp (with ghee).
• Red flowers or rice grains (akshat).
• A copper pot with some water and Tulsi leaves."

Sharing the rituals and steps to follow to cleanse your energies this Surya Grahan, astrologer Arun Pandit's social media post further read,
"STEP 1. Before the eclipse begins
• Choose a peaceful place (home or a sacred spot in a temple).
• Take a bath and wear clean clothes.
• Sit before a picture or idol of Lord Surya (Sun God) or Lord Rama."

Popular astrologer Arun Pandit revealed in a social media post that by doing some simple rituals on this Surya Grahan can help fix 1.25 lakh dosha in your kundli. "A solar eclipse is not just a play of the skies—it’s an opportunity to cleanse your energies and reignite your inner power. Take some time, set the right intention, and don’t forget to follow this ritual," he said.

"The Surya Grahan today won't be visible in India, and so its Sutak Kaal will also not be considered in India," popular astrologer Arun Pandit explained in a video posted on social media recently.

Explaining the astrological significance of today's Surya Grahan and what makes it so rare and special, astrologer Arun Pandit said in a video posted on social media, "The very next day of Surya Grahan is when Navratri begins this year (which is considered an auspicious time). This time the Surya Grahan (Solar eclipse) is taking place on the last day of Shradh, which is also called the Mahashradh. Just a few days ago, there was a Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse which caused a Blood Moon) and now there's a Surya Grahan-- this is an extremely rare coincidence."

Scientific evidence mainly highlights physical risks like eye damage, but eclipses hold cultural and psychological significance. Through meditation, fasting, or safe observation, they inspire reflection, humility, and awareness of humanity’s place in the universe, reminding us how fragile, interconnected, and precious life truly is.

For centuries, eclipses have symbolized a cosmic reset. Ayurveda, yoga, and modern psychology view them as moments to pause, reflect, meditate, or reconnect, breaking routine and encouraging inner focus.

Pregnant women are traditionally advised to stay indoors during a solar eclipse to protect the unborn child. While science shows no direct risk, avoiding stress and fatigue is important. Eclipses can cause anxiety in some communities, and this practice likely helped ensure expecting mothers remained calm and safe.

In Indian traditions, eclipses are considered inauspicious for cooking or eating, as ancient texts warned of “contaminated” food. While scientifically unproven, modern microbiologists suggest food left out could spoil. Many households still discard cooked meals during eclipses, preparing fresh food afterward, continuing a ritual rooted in caution and tradition.