The solar eclipse that passes over the United States on 21st August 2017 is a major event. Astronomers, both professional and amateur, have been planning for this event for years. Small towns across the country that are in the path of totality have no hotel rooms left and are expecting hundreds of thousands of visitors for this unique event. Whether you are planning a road trip across the country for the occasion or watching it from your own garden, we have compiled the best resources to prepare you for the spectacle. Enjoy!

Solar Eclipse Events 2017

The NASA has the most comprehensive list of events and activities surrounding the solar eclipse. Some towns are celebrating the occasion with festivals lasting the whole weekend, while others are holding only small gatherings on the day of the eclipse. Whatever you feel like, just look up your location on the map to see the list of parties and events near you.

Safety While Viewing the Solar Eclipse

Most people know that they shouldn’t look directly at the sun, but with the upcoming solar eclipse, there are also concerns about the protective glasses that people might wear. Read the safety tips from the American Astronomical Society and make sure you have the best viewing experience possible.

How the Solar Eclipse Will Look Based on Your Zip Code

Vox has one of the coolest visualizations of the solar eclipse. While most of the excitement revolves around the path of totality running through the middle of the country, most people will only get to see a partial eclipse. Just enter your zip code to get an idea of what you will see on 21st August.

Interactive Map – Travel the Path of Totality

Even if you are not on the path of totality, this interactive map is quite amazing. See how the solar eclipse spreads across the country and get information about the unique events, sights, and places that will be shrouded in darkness for a few minutes.

Solar Eclipse Photography

Many will want to capture this exciting event, but few will truly do it justice. There are many things to consider when photographing the sky, and the solar eclipse makes it even more complicated. Read the Time Magazine interview on how to photograph the solar eclipse. The article features photographer and Canon representative Ken Sklute with his tips on everything from equipment to settings. You can also check out the video below from photographer Hudson Harry, diving deep into lenses, filters, and glasses to ensure you get the best possible shots of the solar eclipse.

“Solar Eclipse 2017” Competition

If the one-day solar eclipse event doesn’t satisfy your love for astronomy, MOVA International has teamed up with Celestron Telescopes to give away 4 incredible sky-themed prizes. Visit our competition page starting from 14th August and stand a chance to win a Moon MOVA Globe, an Earth MOVA Globe, a Celestron binocular, and a Celestron telescope.

We hope you enjoy the solar eclipse and can’t wait to hear your observation stories and see your pictures.

For a complete overview of the solar eclipse, visit the NASA Eclipse website.

Features of the Eclipse