On October 14, 2023, people across the United States, as well as parts of Central America and South America, will witness an extraordinary event: a solar eclipse! While orbiting Earth, the moon will pass between our planet and the sun, briefly blocking the sun’s light.
During this upcoming annular eclipse, the moon will cover most of the sun, leaving only a ring of bright light visible around the moon’s edges. But remember: It’s never safe to look directly at the sun, even when it’s partially—or completely—covered. For those viewing the event, “certified eclipse glasses must be used at all times,” says Xavier Jubier, a French engineer who studies solar eclipses. These special glasses protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh rays.
People in the Southern or Eastern U.S. may be able to see another eclipse on April 8, 2024. On that date, the moon will be perfectly positioned to cover the sun completely, creating a spectacular total eclipse!