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Solar Eclipse 2017: Your complete guide

The moon will hide the sun on Aug. 21. Here's where to go, how to view it safely, why it happens and what Bigfoot has to do with a solar eclipse.

Amanda Kooser
Freelance writer Amanda C. Kooser covers gadgets and tech news with a twist for CNET. When not wallowing in weird gear and iPad apps for cats, she can be found tinkering with her 1956 DeSoto.
Amanda Kooser
3 min read
Watch this: Solar eclipse wows millions across the US, see it all

North America will be treated to a rare total solar eclipse on Aug. 21. Hype for the eclipse is in overdrive thanks to its coast-to-coast track across the contiguous US, from Oregon to South Carolina. Here's everything you need to know, from planning to eye safety to the fascinating history of the first total solar eclipse photo. 

Solar eclipse times

Don't miss the big moment. Check NASA's eclipse times for cities in the path of totality, from Madras to Columbia:

nasaeclipsetimes

This chart covers the start and totality times from Oregon to South Carolina.

NASA

Where to watch the total solar eclipse 

Eclipse totality lasts for only a brief amount of time. Here's how to plan out your experience and why you won't want to miss it.

How to look at the sun

We all know you're not supposed to look directly at the sun, so try out these options and save your eyes.

Are those glasses fake?

Not every pair of solar eclipse glasses is created equal. Counterfeit and unverified eclipse-viewing glasses flooded the market. Here's how to stay safe.

Watch this: How to spot fake eclipse glasses

Strange things are going to happen

The eclipse offers a great excuse to brush up on your cryptozoology skills, contemplate the end of the world and view totality from a Waffle House parking lot.

Check out previous solar eclipses

Prep for the upcoming event by looking back at some gorgeous images of past eclipses.

32 amazing photos of solar eclipses (pictures)

See all photos

The science and history of solar eclipses

From the first photograph of a total eclipse to how fast you would have to go to keep up with the path of totality, come delve into the fascinating history and science behind the eclipse.  

First published Aug 16., 5:46 p.m. PT. 
Update, Aug. 20 at 11:51 a.m. PT: New links added.
Update, Aug. 21 at 8:50 a.m. PT: New links added.

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