upper waypoint

Where, When and How to See Today's Total Solar Eclipse

Save ArticleSave Article
Failed to save article

Please try again


You’ve got one chance to watch 2016’s singular total solar eclipse. It’s only visible in Southeast Asia, but good news Area folks: you can watch the event via the Exploratorium’s live feed above.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Sun is completely blocked as the Moon passes between it and the Earth. The place on Earth where you can see the Sun totally blocked is only 100 miles wide.

The last total solar eclipse happened on March 20, 2015 and the next one is August 21, 2017, which will be visible from the Pacific Northwest to the Southeast.

Until then, find more details about tonight’s eclipse below.

Sponsored

Where can I watch the eclipse?
The video player above!

When can I watch the eclipse?
March 8, 5:00–6:15 p.m. PST

What if I want to watch more?
Today from 4:00-8:00 p.m. PST the player above will stream footage from telescopes on Micronesia capturing the eclipse as it unfolds.
*Note: It’s image-only, without narration

Can I nerd out even more?
Yes! The Exploratorium is offering free admission after 5 p.m. You can watch real-time imagery from telescopes on the coral atoll Woleai and hear scientists talk about NASA’s new multi-satellite endeavor to measure the magnetosphere that connects the Earth and the Sun.

lower waypoint
next waypoint
Atmospheric Rivers in California’s Ancient Past Exceeded Modern StormsWorld's Largest Digital Camera Built in the Bay Area to Illuminate Mysteries of the UniverseHow an Ocean Exploration Video Game Out of Monterey Bay Contributes to ScienceFrom Tunnel Muck to Tidal Marsh, BART Extension Could Benefit the BayThis is NOT a Dandelion.Everything You Never Wanted to Know About Snail SexEver Wake Up Frozen in the Middle of the Night, With a Shadowy Figure in the Room?What Actually Makes Water Roll Off a Duck's Back?What Are Those Weird, Pink Ponds in San Francisco Bay?NASA Prepares to Return to Venus for the First Time in Decades