Media Release

Udupi, Jan 2: “Several astronomical phenomena will occur in the new year. These events will not only amaze stargazers but also provide valuable opportunities for astronomical studies,” said Dr A P Bhat, an astronomer.

Various social flares will be seen in 2025, including four eclipses, three super moons and the disappearance of Saturn’s ring.

The Sun's activity follows an 11-year cycle, and the current phase of heightened solar flares began last year. During the early months of 2025, the Sun's surface will witness an intense period of flaring activity. This phenomenon will be marked by increased solar storms, emitting powerful energy particles and creating an abundance of sunspots, offering a spectacle for those observing through telescopes.

The year 2025 will see four eclipses, a lunar eclipse on March 13 or 14, a partial solar eclipse on March 29, another lunar eclipse on September 7 or 8, a partial solar eclipse on September 21. Among these, only the September 7 lunar eclipse will be visible in India, providing a rare treat for local observers.

Every 29 years, Earth’s alignment with Saturn causes its iconic rings to vanish from view. This phenomenon will occur from March to November 2025, during which telescopic observations of Saturn will reveal no visible rings. The alignment happens because the plane of Saturn’s rings aligns with Earth’s orbital plane.

Mars will dominate the skies in January, Saturn in September, and Jupiter in December. Notably, during late January and February, a spectacular view of four to five planets Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars, will light up the evening sky, moving from west to east.