On August 21, 2017, for the first time since 1979, people in the United States will be able to view a Total Solar Eclipse. What is a solar eclipse? Check out this video from PBS and Ideastream for a simple explanation. Since it's not something that happens often, here are some websites and apps to help you keep track of it when it happens and the best way to view it.
 |
| from NASA |
First, check out the NASA website for all things Total Solar Eclipse! Here you will find information about eclipses, maps, safe viewing tips, and really anything you would ever want to know about eclipses. And if you can't get outside to view, they will even have a live stream available for viewing.
 |
| from NASA's Solar Eclipse livestream |
Another fun website to check out for eclipse information is TimeandDate.com. There are maps and videos and on the right side of their page, under the countdown, you can put in your town and the website will tell you exactly when the eclipse will begin, how long it will last, and what you will see. Try it out!
 |
| Timeanddate.com |
We will all want to look at the eclipse as it's happening but it's important to not look directly at the sun. If you don't have special eclipse viewing glasses, you can create a simple pinhole projector to view the eclipse using just paper, an empty cereal box, and some tin foil.
Follow the directions in this video from NASA's eclipse website.
Want to track the eclipse on your mobile device? Check out these two apps:
Eclipse2017.org
iOS | Android
Eclipse Safari
iOS | Android
Any plans for viewing the eclipse on August 21? Is anyone taking a road trip? Tell us in the comments!