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Solar Eclipse of August 21, 2017

Note: This section refers to a past astronomical event. It remains available as a historic reference.

A solar eclipse will occur on August 21, 2017. Are you ready for this spectacular natural phenomenon? In this special section dedicated to the event, you’ll learn about eclipses in general and the local circumstances of this particular eclipse, and you’ll find suggestions for safe viewing methods. Click on through the following sections!

Umbra, penumbra and antumbra (diagram)

What is a Solar Eclipse?

Put simply, a solar eclipse is a shadow play between the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth. It is a rare phenomenon that always changes aspect and duration.
Frequency of Eclipses (texture)

Frequency of solar eclipses

How often do solar eclipses, these impressive astronomical phenomena, occur? The answer depends on your location!

Get ready for the August 21, 2017 Solar Eclipse!

20170821 eclipse map North America

The August 21, 2017 Solar Eclipse

The solar eclipse that takes place on Monday, August 21, 2017, will be total in a narrow path crossing the continental USA from west to east. Outside this zone, the eclipse will be partial to varying degrees in the rest of the USA, as well as in Québec and elsewhere in Canada. Get ready for this remarkable natural phenomenon!
Eclipse steps

Local circumstances of the solar eclipse of August 21, 2017

Key moments of the solar eclipse of August 21, 2017, for some localities in Quebec and elsewhere in Canada, presented as tables indicating the local time of contacts, as well as the magnitude of the eclipse and obscuration of the Sun at the time of maximum.
Average August fractional cloud amount at 1030 am

What will the weather be on eclipse day?

To make sure nothing is left to chance, some eclipse buffs prepare themselves months in advance. But in spite of all precautions, there is one element that can spoil your experience: the weather.
Observing the Sun

How to safely observe the Sun

Never look directly at the Sun. Always use a proper solar filter. The Sun's intense radiation always presents a serious danger to the eye.
The eclipse on the Web

The August 21 Total Eclipse, Live on the Web

Can’t make it to the USA to experience the total solar eclipse? Unable to join us to observe the partial eclipse at the Planétarium? In that case, turn to the Web!