What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, blocking all or part of the Sun's light. It can only happen during a new moon.
In a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun's bright face. The sky darkens like twilight, temperatures drop and the Sun's glowing outer atmosphere, the corona, becomes visible. Totality lasts at most about seven and a half minutes and is seen only along a narrow path on Earth.
In a partial eclipse, the Moon covers only part of the Sun. In an annular eclipse, the Moon is farther from Earth and looks slightly smaller, leaving a bright ring of sunlight, called the ring of fire. Total eclipses are possible because the Sun is about 400 times wider than the Moon but also about 400 times farther away.
Watch safely
Never look directly at the Sun, even during most of an eclipse, because it can permanently damage your eyes. Use certified eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector. Only during the brief moment of totality is it safe to look with the naked eye.
Did You Know?
A total solar eclipse crossed Spain, Iceland and Greenland on August 12, 2026. Another long one will cross North Africa and the Middle East on August 2, 2027.