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Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

See Explanation. Clicking on the picture will download the highest resolution version available.

Where to See the American Eclipse

Explanation: Are you planning to see the American Eclipse on August 21? A few hours after sunrise, a rare total eclipse of the Sun will be visible along a narrow path across the USA . Those only near the path will see a partial eclipse . Although some Americans live right in path of totality , surely many more will be able to get there after a well-planned drive . One problem with eclipses , though, is that clouds sometimes get in the way . To increase your clear-viewing odds, you might consult the featured map and find a convenient destination with a historically low chance (more blue) of thick clouds overhead during totality . Given the large fraction of Americans carrying camera-equipped smartphones, this American Eclipse may turn out to be the most photographed event in the history of the world .

Socialize: Plan an eclipse party!

Date January 31, 2017
Credit Image Credit: Jay Anderson ; Data: MODIS Satellite, NASA's GSFC
Authors & editors: Robert Nemiroff (MTU) & Jerry Bonnell (UMCP)
A service of: ASD at NASA / GSFC,
NASA Science Activation & Michigan Tech. U.