A: A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow over the Earth and, for a brief moment, blocking out the sun's light. Depending on your location, you might experience a partial or total eclipse.

The path of totality is the narrow strip of land from which the total eclipse is visible. Observers in this path will see the moon completely cover the sun, turning day into night for a brief period. Outside this path, observers will witness a partial eclipse.

A: Looking directly at the sun without proper protection can cause serious eye damage. To safely view the eclipse, you must use eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. During totality, it's safe to briefly look at the eclipse without protection, but glasses must be worn again as soon as the sun begins to reappear.

A: The duration of totality varies but typically lasts a few minutes. The entire eclipse, including the partial phases before and after totality, can last several hours.