clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

  • Stream
The sun, a black circle obscured by the moon and surrounded by a glowing white corona, hangs in a black sky.

Everything you need to know about the 2024 solar eclipse

From why this year is so special to tips for watching, we’ve got you covered.

Contributors: Vox Staff

Millions of Americans in the United States will be able to see a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. It will be the last chance for those in the lower 48 states to see one for 21 years. Even if you can’t get to the path of totality, which is where the moon’s shadow covers the sun, you’ll at least see a partial solar eclipse over the course of the day.

So — if you’re wondering how you can witness what some folks call a life-changing event to why they happen in the first place, follow along here for answers to all of your questions and more.

10 Total Updates Since
Jul 17, 2017, 8:40am EDT
  • April 8

    The terrifying and awesome power of solar eclipses

    By Paige Vega

    Eclipses inspire awe, create opportunities for science — and cause angst among energy-grid operators.

  • April 8

    When is the next total solar eclipse?

    By Brian Resnick

    Don’t worry if you missed the 2024 eclipse. There will be more.

  • April 5

    The solar eclipse is a critical test for the US power grid

    By Umair Irfan

    US solar power has more than doubled since the last eclipse. What will happen during this one?

  • April 4

    “Equivalent to having 50 Super Bowls”: The staggering — and lucrative — scale of eclipse tourism

    By Li Zhou

    More people will travel for this event than for one of the country’s biggest games.

  • April 4

    She’s been chasing solar eclipses for three decades. What’s she after?

    By Noam Hassenfeld

    This scientist has seen nearly 20 solar eclipses. She’s trying to solve a mystery that could help protect Earth.

  • April 3

    Why you absolutely cannot stare at the sun without eclipse glasses

    By Brian Resnick

    Yes, solar eclipses can blind you. Here’s how to protect your eyes.

  • April 2

    The total solar eclipse is returning to the United States — better than before

    By Brian Resnick

    This will be the last total solar eclipse over the contiguous United States for 21 years. Don’t miss it!

  • April 2

    Why a total solar eclipse is a life-changing event, according to 8 eclipse chasers

    By Brian Resnick and Joss Fong

    "You never forget your first kiss … you always remember your first time in the shadow," says one eclipse chaser.

  • August 21, 2017

    When the dragon ate the sun: how ancient peoples interpreted solar eclipses

    By Constance Grady

    In an eclipse, the sun abandons the world. Here’s what the ancient world thought that meant.

  • July 17, 2017

    What’s so awe-inspiring about solar eclipses, in one paragraph

    By Brian Resnick

    "You suddenly feel as though you can see the clockwork of the solar system."

Sign up for the newsletter Today, Explained

Understand the world with a daily explainer plus the most compelling stories of the day.