Where You Want to Be for the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse
A total solar eclipse will cross the continental United States on August 21, 2017.
by Eileen Campbell • August 19, 2016
2017 Solar Eclipse Map USA
Be ready
On August 21, 2017 a total solar eclipse will cross the continental United States. In the middle of the day, the moon will cover the face of the sun and block it out entirely. You want to be there to see it!
Be on the path of totality
The total eclipse will be seen along just a thin line arching from Oregon to South Carolina. Unless you’re on that line, you’ll only see a partial eclipse.
Be where the sun shines, until it doesn’t
Find a sunny location along the path, or the clouds will hide the sun before the moon does. (The Oregon coast is not a good bet.)
Be (probably) not in your home town
It’s being called “The Great American Eclipse,” but most towns in the U.S. aren’t on the path. If you stay home, you’ll only see a partial eclipse. The good news: if you live in the continental U.S., you’re within a day’s drive of the path of totality.
Be with an astronomer
Find someone who has a telescope and knows how to use it. You can watch the eclipse with your special viewing glasses, but a telescope will make it even more amazing.
Be at the Exploratorium or watching our webcast
If you can’t make it to the path of totality, the next-best place to be on August 21, 2017 is the Exploratorium. We’ll have a special showing of live footage of the eclipse on our floor that day, along with educational programs and other events. Or watch the live stream online on our website or mobile app. See you there.
