A total solar eclipse will occur tonight, Aug. 12, when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth in a straight alignment, casting its shadow on the planet. The total phase is expected to last about two minutes, making it the only total solar eclipse of the year.
Skywatchers across the world are awaiting the rare event. The eclipse is expected to be visible in places including Greenland, northern Russia, Iceland, northern Spain, parts of Portugal and some regions of the United States.
According to Indian Standard Time, totality is expected around 11:16 pm. However, since the eclipse happens at night for India, it cannot be viewed directly from the country. Viewers in India can still follow the event through NASA’s livestream on social media.
In the United States, a full eclipse will not be seen nationwide, but a partial solar eclipse is expected in some areas. Alaska and parts of 26 states are expected to witness at least a portion of the eclipse.
NASA has urged people planning to watch the partial eclipse to use certified eclipse glasses, warning that looking at the Sun without proper protection can cause permanent eye damage.
