Southern Hemisphere’s Final Solar Eclipse of 2025 to Darken Skies This Weekend

JOHANNESBURG — Days before spring equinox

The year’s last solar eclipse will occur on 21 September 2025, sweeping across the Southern Hemisphere but missing South African skies. This deep partial eclipse will see the moon covering up to 86 percent of the sun at its peak.

South Africa won’t witness this event directly following its recent total lunar eclipse on 7 September. Local astronomy enthusiasts can view it through global livestreams instead. (The South African)

Southern New Zealand, Antarctica and remote South Pacific islands will get the best views. The timing aligns closely with the September equinox, marking the start of spring in southern regions.

Experts emphasize: never view the sun directly without proper protection. Use only certified eclipse glasses or indirect viewing methods for safety.

Upcoming solar eclipses visible in South Africa include:

• 16 September 2026: Significant partial eclipse as the moon covers a large portion of the sun near sunset.
• 26 January 2028: Rare annular “ring of fire” eclipse visible in Durban and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
• 25 November 2030: Total eclipse bringing minutes of darkness to Johannesburg, Durban and Maputo – a major regional event.

Mark these celestial dates for future skywatching opportunities across southern Africa.