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How to Safely Watch a Total Solar Eclipse

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On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse
will cross North America.

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A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon
passes between the Sun and Earth,

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fully or partially blocking the
Sun’s light.

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To safely observe a solar eclipse, wear
eclipse glasses (not sunglasses) or use

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an indirect viewing method.

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If you're in the path of totality, here's
how to safely watch the eclipse.

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Phase 1 Glasses On Partial Eclipse

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The Sun’s disk is partially blocked by the
Moon. In most locations, this will last

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over an hour. It is not safe to look
directly at the Sun without specialized

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eye protection.

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Phase 2 Glasses On Diamond Ring

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Sunlight streaming through the Moon’s
valleys creates a single bright flash

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of light. This marks the last few seconds
before totality. It is not safe to look

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directly at the Sun without
specialized eye protection.

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Phase 3 Glasses On Baily’s Beads

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For a few moments, low-lying valleys on

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the Moon’s edge allow sunlight to pass
through. It is not safe to look

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directly at the Sun without
specialized eye protection.

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Phase 4 Glasses Off Totality

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The Moon completely covers the disk of the
Sun. This can only be seen in the path of

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totality and will last up to 4 ½ minutes.
Totality is not visible through eclipse

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glasses. Do not remove your eclipse
glasses if you are outside the path.

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Phase 5 Glasses On Final Stages

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Following another diamond ring, a crescent
shape begins to peek out from behind the

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Moon. As the diamond ring reappears, wear
your eclipse glasses or use an indirect

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viewing method. It is not safe to look
directly at the Sun without specialized

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eye protection.

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To learn more about eclipse safety visit
go.nasa.gov/EclipseSafety