Millions of people around the world will have a rare chance to witness the total solar eclipse occurring at an uncommon frequency of just seven years.
It is dubbed the Great North American Eclipse.
According to NASA, the last total solar eclipse occurred on August 21, 2017, with an estimated 215 million US adults (88 per cent of US adults) viewing it either directly or electronically.
The path ranged from about 62 to 71 miles wide and took 2 minutes, 42 seconds.
This was the first time such an event visible in the provinces of Canada had occurred since 1979 and the next one visible in the contiguous US will not be until August 2044.
It was also the first one in Mexico since July 11, 1991.
The final solar eclipse of the year will occur six months later on October 2, 2024.
It will be the only total solar eclipse in the 21st century where totality will be visible in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada
Here's what you need to know
A total solar eclipse is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that occurs when the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun, obscuring the sun's light completely.
Total solar eclipses are rare events that can only be observed from specific locations on Earth during specific times.
Today’s eclipse will sweep across North America from Mexico, through 15 US States and up through Canada.
The path will range between 108 and 122 miles meaning at any given moment, this eclipse covers more ground.
This phase of the eclipse is the most mesmerising and awe-inspiring.
It will pass over more cities and densely populated areas than the 2017 path did, said NASA.
“This will make it easier for more people to see totality. An estimated 31.6 million people live in the path of totality this year, compared to 12 million in 2017,” it said.
The path of totality, where the total eclipse is visible, creates a narrow corridor on the earth's surface.
Outside this path, observers may witness a partial eclipse, where only a portion of the sun is obscured by the moon.
During totality, the sky darkens dramatically, and the sun's corona-the outer atmosphere- becomes visible, appearing as a glowing halo around the darkened disk of the Moon.
How to observe the sun safely
The total solar eclipse is a rare and unforgettable experience that combines scientific wonder with visual beauty, bringing people together to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos.
It is, however, crucial to observe safety precautions when viewing it.
Looking directly at the sun without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage or blindness because it contains harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays.
Certified solar viewing glasses or other safe viewing methods, such as solar filters for telescopes or cameras, must be used.
You can, however, view it during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse when the moon obscures the sun.
