Millions across the United States will see a partial solar eclipse on Wednesday, Aug. 12. Observers are warned that looking at the sun without proper protection can cause permanent eye damage. Use solar eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 standard, consult the American Astronomical Society's vendor list, or use an indirect viewing method such as a pinhole projector. Do not use ordinary sunglasses or unfiltered optics.
How to Watch Wednesday’s Partial Solar Eclipse Safely — Tips and Timing
Solar eclipse on Wednesday, how to watch safely
Millions of Americans will look skyward on Wednesday, Aug. 12, when a partial solar eclipse will cross more than half the country. Before you step outside, remember: looking at the sun without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage. Follow these safety steps to enjoy the event responsibly.
How to Watch Safely
Use Certified Solar Eclipse Glasses: The simplest and most reliable method is a pair of solar eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer that complies with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. These viewers block harmful ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation.
Know What Not To Use: Ordinary sunglasses — even very dark ones — do NOT provide adequate protection. Never look at the sun through unfiltered cameras, binoculars, telescopes, or sunglasses. Doing so can cause serious and permanent eye injury.
Follow Trusted Sources: NASA and the American Astronomical Society (AAS) recommend safe viewing practices. NASA does not certify individual brands; the AAS maintains a list of trusted vendors that sell glasses meeting current safety standards.
Use Indirect Viewing Methods: If you cannot obtain certified glasses, use an indirect method such as a pinhole (or “projector”) viewer made from household items. These project the an image of the sun onto a surface so you can watch safely without looking directly at the sun. NASA provides step-by-step instructions for building and using pinhole projectors.
For Optics and Cameras: If you plan to view the eclipse through a telescope, binoculars, or camera, use a proper solar filter designed for that equipment and attach it securely over the front of the optics. Do not place filters over eyepieces or use improvised filters.
When and Where to Watch
The partial eclipse on Wednesday, Aug. 12 is expected to begin at about 11:34 a.m. ET, with the maximum eclipse occurring near 1:46 p.m. ET, according to Time and Date. The event will be visible across 26 U.S. states and Washington, D.C.; portions of six countries will experience totality where the moon fully covers the sun.
The following states and Washington, D.C. will see the partial eclipse:
- Alaska
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Montana
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Dakota
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
Final tip: Check live updates from NASA, the American Astronomical Society, or reputable local news sources for timing changes, safety advisories, and viewing recommendations for your exact location.
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