When is the next solar or lunar eclipse visible from where you are?
Eclipses happen when the Sun, Moon, and Earth line up. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, blocking the Sun's light. A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon.
Solar eclipses happen about 2-5 times per year, but they're only visible from a narrow path on Earth. Lunar eclipses are visible from half the planet at once. The next total solar eclipse visible from North America is August 23, 2044. The last one was April 8, 2024 — which crossed Mexico, the US, and Canada.
Eclipses don't happen every month because the Moon's orbit is tilted about 5 degrees relative to Earth's orbit around the Sun. Most months, the Moon passes above or below the Sun from our perspective. The alignment only happens during "eclipse seasons" about twice a year.
From North America: August 23, 2044. It will cross Greenland, Iceland, and part of Canada. The last one was April 8, 2024.
The next total lunar eclipse visible from North America is March 14, 2025. It will be a total eclipse, lasting about 65 minutes.
No. Never look directly at the Sun during any eclipse except during the brief moments of total totality. Even then, use certified eclipse glasses. Partial eclipses can damage your eyes permanently.
The Moon's orbit is tilted 5 degrees relative to Earth's orbit around the Sun. Most months, the Moon passes above or below the Sun from our perspective. Eclipses only happen during "eclipse seasons" when the alignment is right.