Is the solar eclipse visible on Sept 21 or 22?

A partial solar eclipse will be visible this weekend, but only for select regions across the globe. While many skywatchers are curious about whether it happens on Sept. 21 or Sept. 22, NASA clarifies that the eclipse is followed closely by another major celestial event, the fall equinox, adding to the confusion. For most people outside the Southern Hemisphere, this will be an event best followed online rather than in the skies above.

NASA confirms the eclipse takes place on Sunday, Sept. 21. It will not extend into Sept. 22—the following day is reserved for the equinox. The United States will not see this eclipse at all, but observers in Australia, Antarctica, and across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans will have the chance to watch. This is the second eclipse this month, coming shortly after the total lunar eclipse of Sept. 7–8.

A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun without perfect alignment. Because of this, the Sun isn’t fully blocked, and only part of it appears covered, producing a crescent-like view in the sky. NASA notes that these events are fairly common, but they still capture attention due to the unusual way they reshape the Sun’s appearance.

The eclipse will only be visible across specific parts of the Southern Hemisphere. People in Australia, Antarctica, and observers positioned on the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans will have the right view. Elsewhere, including North America, Europe, and most of Asia, the event will not be visible at all.

On Monday, Sept. 22, the fall equinox will occur. Twice a year, in March and September, day and night are nearly equal across the globe. At this moment, the Sun crosses Earth’s equatorial plane, appearing directly overhead at noon for those on the equator. The timing of this year’s equinox, just one day after the eclipse, has fueled curiosity around the back-to-back celestial events.

The US will need to wait until Aug. 12, 2026, for a visible eclipse. That day, a total solar eclipse will sweep across Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia, and a section of Portugal, while a partial eclipse will stretch into North America, Europe, and Africa. An annular eclipse, often referred to as the “ring of fire”, is also scheduled for Feb. 17, 2026, though it will primarily be visible in Antarctica with partial views across parts of Africa and South America.

NASA warns that looking directly at the Sun is dangerous without proper protection. Certified solar eclipse glasses or approved filters are essential for safe viewing. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient, and optical equipment like telescopes or binoculars should never be used without solar filters. For those outside the visibility path, following live streams from NASA or observatories is the safest way to experience the event.