The total solar eclipse of the heart on August 21, 2017 will be visible across the entire United States. We can tell you, specifically, when and where it can be seen in Illinois.

NASA Eclipse Photo 2017
NASA
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On August 21, 2017 there will be a total solar eclipse, which hasn't happened since the 1970's.

A total solar eclipse is where the moon will completely cover the sun and the sun's tenuous atmosphere.

Scientists say parts of the United States will see a twilight sky in the middle of the day, which may seem odd but is perfect normal. There's no need to bust out the tinfoil hats and buy truck loads of non-perishable foods, everything will be fine. You will need special eye-wear, though.

According to NASA, the total solar eclipse will be visible in Illinois for less than three minutes. Request the day off from work because you're going to have to go for a drive if you want to see it.

August 2017 Eclipse Viewing
NASA
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The map shows Illinois' chance of seeing the total solar eclipse will be south of East St. Louis extending south of Mt. Vernon. Sure, it's a little bit of a driver but it may be your only chance to witness it in your lifetime.

August 2017 Eclipse Viewing
NASA
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If you're going to attempt to see this moment-of-awe make sure you're wearing appropriate eye-wear. If you don't it could cause serious damage to your eyes.

NASA advises the following for those attempting to see the total solar eclipse.

Stand still and cover your eyes with your eclipse glasses or solar viewer before looking up at the bright sun. After glancing at the sun, turn away and remove your filter — do not remove it while looking at the sun.

Do not look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device.

Do not look at the sun through a camera, a telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while using your eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewer — the concentrated solar rays will damage the filter and enter your eye(s), causing serious injury. Seek expert advice from an astronomer before using a solar filter with a camera, a telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device.

If you are within the path of totality, remove your solar filter only when the Moon completely covers the sun’s bright face and it suddenly gets quite dark. Experience totality, then, as soon as the bright sun begins to reappear, replace your solar viewer to glance at the remaining partial phases.


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