Today, a rare natural phenomenon is taking place – a solar eclipse will engulf the USA, Canada and Mexico, in which the moon will completely block out the sun from the Earth for a short period.
If you missed the last North American one in 2017, then you should think about seeing it this time. The next time a solar eclipse will take place in the US is 23 August 2044, and it won’t have as big of a reach as this one.
If you’re based in the UK, then the spectacle will only be viewable in person from western parts of the country, according to the BBC. More importantly, it will only appear as a partial eclipse from this location.
Fortunately, there’s still a way to catch this incredible event from anywhere in the world. Keep on reading if you want to find out more. We also have information on how to watch the eclipse in person from the US.
How to stream the solar eclipse from anywhere
If you’re not able to view the total eclipse in person (such as if you’re in the UK), then NASA will be broadcasting a live feed that anyone in the world can enjoy.
The eclipse will begin at the following times:
- 11:07am PT
- 2:07pm ET
- 7:07pm BST
It will start on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and gradually move through America and finish in Newfoundland, Canada, in the East. This will take just over two hours, giving you plenty of time to tune in from the comfort of your own home.
NASA’s stream will have coverage moving through the country, so you can see the spectacle from numerous locations. You can tune into that below (the company has even put together a snazzy trailer):
BBC will also have UK news coverage of the event.
When is the next solar eclipse in the UK?
If you’d rather catch an eclipse in person from Britain, then be prepared for a long old wait.
The next solar eclipse over here won’t take place until September 2090, and it will only be viewable from Cornwall and Devon.
How to watch the solar eclipse in person in the US
If you’re in Mexico, USA or Canada, then you’ll only be able to view the complete total eclipse from specific locations.
Here’s a map from NASA, which shows the path:
NASA
Notable places that will get a great view include Niagara Falls, Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo.
If you’re planning on driving out to a place to watch it in person, then you’ll need protective eyewear. Sunglasses won’t be enough to protect your vision – you’ll need authentic solar viewers or filters.
Many sellers will try and flog non-certified items, but you can find a list of officially approved ones on the American Astronomical Society website.
Some approved big retailers selling glasses and filters in-store are Walmart, 7-Eleven and Staples.
