Mark your calendars, Houston. On April 8, a celestial showcase unlike any other will grace our skies. A total solar eclipse—the first to reach Texas since 2017—will plunge us into a brief twilight right in the middle of the day. It will travel across the state for 480 miles, entering from Mexico and reaching its peak around 1:40pm. While the Bayou City will only have a partial view of the phenomenon, the moon will cover most of the sun’s surface and there will be plenty to see right here in town. For those who want a complete glimpse, take a drive to San Antonio, which will be in a direct viewing path. Don’t miss this cosmic phenomenon: the next one won’t happen for 20 years.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total eclipse occurs when the moon completely obscures the sun, casting a shadow on the Earth and plunging the area within the path of totality into darkness. For a brief period, usually just a few minutes, day turns into night, stars become visible, and the sun’s wispy outer atmosphere—the corona—comes into view.

What safety tips should you follow?

Like with any eclipse, having the right viewing equipment is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. NASA advises against looking directly at the sun during any phase of the eclipse without proper eye protection. Standard sunglasses are not sufficient to protect your eyes from the intense solar radiation. Instead, viewers should use certified eclipse glasses that block out harmful ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation, allowing you to safely observe the occurrence. It’s essential to inspect your glasses for scratches or holes before use, as even a small imperfection can lead to eye damage.

Where to see the total solar eclipse