The next total solar eclipse visible across the United States will occur on April 8, 2024, with its path of totality crossing from Texas through Ohio and into New England. A major partial eclipse will be visible across all of North America, offering a dramatic sky darkening in daylight hours.
Below is a quick reference summarizing the main eclipse events for major U.S. cities, including first contact, peak eclipse, and last contact times in local time. Use this table to plan viewing and photography around your location.
| City | Eclipse Type | First Contact | Peak Eclipse | Last Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas, Texas | Total | 11:27 AM | 12:42 PM | 2:02 PM |
| Indianapolis, Indiana | Total | 2:59 PM | 3:58 PM | 5:00 PM |
| Buffalo, New York | Total | 2:07 PM | 3:19 PM | 4:33 PM |
| Los Angeles, California | Partial | 11:07 AM | 12:16 PM | 1:34 PM |
| Miami, Florida | Partial | 11:41 AM | 12:57 PM | 2:11 PM |
Path of totality across the United States
The April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse will trace a narrow corridor roughly 115 miles wide from Mexico into the United States and then across Canada. Major cities in the path include Dallas, Little Rock, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Burlington. Outside this narrow corridor, viewers will see a partial eclipse with the Moon covering part of the Sun.
Timing and visibility for April 2024 eclipse
Timing details matter for planning travel, photography, and safe viewing. Totality duration will reach up to about 4 minutes and 28 seconds along the center line, with gradual changes across the path. Weather, horizon features, and local circumstances can affect the exact experience at each location.
Safety and viewing preparation
Use ISO-certified eclipse glasses or indirect projection methods for partial phases, and only remove protection during the brief period of totality within the path of totality. Plan for traffic, secure accommodations early, and check local weather forecasts closer to the date to maximize your viewing success.
Planning your eclipse experience
Use this event to explore science, community, and landscape, with careful preparation for timing, travel, and eye safety.
- Confirm your location relative to the path of totality and choose a viewing site with an unobstructed horizon.
- Arrive early to secure accommodation and parking, and monitor weather forecasts in the days leading up to the eclipse.
- Pack eclipse glasses, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a portable shade if you will be outside for extended periods.
- Practice using your camera and filters beforehand, and consider a tripod for stable eclipse and corona photography.
FAQ
Reader questions
How often does a total solar eclipse cross the United States?
Total solar eclipses crossing the U.S. mainland occur roughly every 18 months on average, but any given location may see totality only once every few centuries due to the narrow path and population distribution.
Do I need special glasses for the partial eclipse phases?
Yes, use ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers throughout all partial phases; only during the brief totality can you safely view the Sun with the naked eye.
What is the difference between a total and an annular solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, while an annular eclipse happens when the Moon is farther from Earth and appears smaller, leaving a bright ring of sunlight around the Moon.
Can I watch the eclipse outdoors without equipment?
You can only watch the partial phases safely with proper solar filters; during totality within the path of totality, the Sun’s corona becomes visible and you may remove filters for a few minutes.