A Partial Solar Eclipse in Iceland

On March 29, 2025, a partial solar eclipse was visible across Iceland. In Reykjavík, the eclipse began at 10:05, reached its maximum at around 11:05, and ended at 12:07. At maximum eclipse, the Moon covered roughly two-thirds of the Sun, creating a distinct crescent shape in the sky.

What is a Solar Eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, blocking some or all of the Sun’s light. It happens only during a new moon when the three celestial bodies align perfectly.

Different types of solar eclipses can be seen depending on the moon’s position and the observer’s location.

Types of Solar Eclipses

Curious about the different ways the moon can block the sun? Read our full guide on the types of solar eclipses.

Total Solar Eclipse

The Moon completely covers the Sun, causing the sky to darken dramatically for a short period. A total solar eclipse crossed western Iceland on August 12, 2026, including Reykjavík and other locations within the path of totality.

Partial Solar Eclipse (March 29, 2025 in Iceland)

During the March 29, 2025 eclipse, the Moon covered part of the Sun, creating a crescent shape. In Reykjavík, around 67% of the Sun was covered at maximum eclipse. Safe viewing of a partial solar eclipse always requires suitable solar eclipse glasses or solar filters.

Annular Solar Eclipse

The moon is too far from the Earth to fully cover the sun, leaving a ring of fire around its edges. It occurs when the moon is at its apogee (the farthest point from Earth). The next annular eclipse visible from Iceland will be on June 11, 2048.

Hybrid Solar Eclipse

It is a rare eclipse that shifts between total and annular depending on the viewer's location.

Why Do Solar Eclipses Occur?

Solar eclipses happen because of the precise alignment of the sun, moon, and earth. Since the moon’s orbit is tilted, an eclipse doesn’t occur every month—only when the moon crosses the ecliptic plane during a new moon.

The Earth’s shadow does not play a role in solar eclipses (unlike lunar eclipses). Instead, the moon’s shadow creates regions where the eclipse is total, partial, or annular.

Solar Eclipse vs. Lunar Eclipse

Solar and lunar eclipses are related but occur in opposite ways:

For a more in-depth comparison, check out our article on solar eclipse vs lunar eclipse to learn their key differences.

When is the Next Solar Eclipse?

After the March 29, 2025, eclipse, the next visible solar eclipse will be a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 in Iceland. Iceland will witness a nearly total eclipse, with some areas experiencing totality. This is the only total eclipse Icelanders can experience until 2196!

Watch a Solar Eclipse from Perlan

If you want the best view of the partial solar eclipse in Reykjavík, Perlan is an ideal spot. Perlan has many advantages:

• 360-degree observation deck for an unobstructed view of the sky.
• State-of-the-art planetarium to learn about solar eclipses before witnessing one.
• Away from city glare, making it an excellent spot for eclipse photography.
• Whether you're a local or visiting Iceland, Perlan offers an educational and exciting way to experience this celestial event. 

Looking Back at the March 2025 Eclipse

The March 29, 2025 partial solar eclipse gave people across Iceland the opportunity to see the Moon pass across the Sun. Conditions in western Iceland allowed observers to see and photograph the eclipse, including its crescent shape around maximum coverage.

Prepare for the next solar eclipse here!