On Sunday, the moon will cover about 90 percent of the sun in an annular solar eclipse. A solar eclipse occurs when the sun, the moon, and Earth are aligned such that the moon passes directly between us and the sun. The term “annular” means that the moon does not completely cover the sun, leaving a ring of light around the moon.
The eclipse will begin at sunrise in China; pass over the Pacific Ocean; and move across parts of Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Texas before sunset. The eclipse follows a specific track; outside of this track, observers will only see a partial eclipse. Unfortunately, none of the eclipse will be visible in the Northeast because the sun will already have set.
Note: To prevent eye damage, never look directly at the sun. Even though the sun will be partly covered and even at sunset, the sun is very bright. Instead, use proper filters when looking through a telescope or binoculars.
