Solar Eclipse August 12: When and Where to See It in the US
On Wednesday, August 12, skywatchers across the Northern Hemisphere will witness a spectacular celestial event: a total solar eclipse. While the path of totality will cross Greenland, Iceland, and Spain, the United States will experience a partial eclipse, with the best views in the Northeast and Alaska. For those in the contiguous US, Maine will have the strongest view, with the moon covering about 28% of the sun at approximately 1:50 p.m. ET. In Bangor, Maine, the partial eclipse begins at 12:54 p.m., and at its peak, 24% of the sun will be obscured. Other major cities will also see significant coverage: Boston will see 16% coverage at 1:53 p.m., and New York City will have a partial view as well.nnA partial solar eclipse will be visible from 26 states, with Alaska and Maine offering the best views in the country. The most coverage will be in Alaska, Maine, and Massachusetts. For the Northeast, the eclipse will occur in the early afternoon, making it a prime viewing opportunity for those in states like Maine, New York, and Massachusetts. The partial eclipse will be visible across a swath of the northern US, including states such as Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and more. Skywatchers in these areas should check local times for the peak of the eclipse.nnFor Europe, the event is particularly significant, as it will be a total solar eclipse for those in the path of totality. However, in the US, the partial eclipse is a rare treat, especially for the Northeast, which hasn’t seen a significant solar eclipse in years. Experts remind viewers to use proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses, to safely observe the sun. Never look directly at the sun without certified solar filters, as it can cause permanent eye damage.nnAs the eclipse unfolds, remember to step outside and witness this remarkable alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth. Whether you’re in Maine, Alaska, or any of the other 24 states with visibility, this is a moment to look up and
Shimanta Das 
