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Get Ready to See the 2017 Solar Eclipse

Eye protection, equipment, and essential eclipse information.

Get Ready to See the 2017 Solar Eclipse

The 2017 Solar Eclipse is coming on August 21, and it's the first total solar eclipse since 1979 to pass over the contiguous United States. Are you prepared to view its breathtaking sight?

We have everything you need to safely and clearly see the solar eclipse - and learn about it too!

 

Plan Your Eclipse Viewing

On eclipse day, the moon will pass in front of the sun, creating a few minutes of mid-day darkness illuminated only by a circular "corona" or ring of sunlight around the moon's shadow. As the day goes on, the eclipse will take a cross-country journey from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. Those along its direct path will see the total eclipse, while those outside the path can see a partial eclipse.

No matter where you're located, you'll want to plan the time and location of your viewing in advance to make sure you're outside and in place when the eclipse passes overhead.

Download a map of the eclipse path with times and locations for best viewing:

  2017 Solar Eclipse Viewing Guide 

 

Pack Your Equipment Bag

Get your glasses, telescopes, and binoculars ready!

Before you venture outside, you'll need a few items to safely and clearly view the sun. Eye protection is a must, and portable telescopes or binoculars designed for sun gazing can enhance your experience and ensure you don't miss a second of the action.

Shop Solar Eclipse Viewing Equipment

Study Eclipses and Astronomy

Interested in expanding your knowledge beyond the eclipse and learning more about the sun, planets, and solar system? Check you these activities, demos, models, and resources for teaching and studying astronomy.

Shop for Astronomy Learning Materials

Check out these sites to learn more about when, where, and how the 2017 Solar Eclipse will occur:

NASA
Eclipse 2017
Space.com
National Parks Service