A total solar eclipse will occur today in North America, with Iowa expecting roughly 84% coverage. 

A total solar eclipse is one of the rarest astronomical events, with the last one taking place in the United States in August of 2017 and the next not happening until 2044. A total solar eclipse is when the moon passes between the earth and sun, totally obscuring the view of the sun from Earth. The unique phenomenon causes darkness during the middle of the day, and today the most coverage in Marion and Warren Counties is expected at around 1:58 pm, with the eclipse actually starting around 12:43 pm. 

It is important when viewing a solar eclipse to always wear special eclipse glasses that are sold at many local businesses or are available online. Staring directly at the sun, even if it is being blocked, can be extremely damaging to the eyes even if it is just for a minute. Dr. Caroline Roberts works in the Astronomy Department at the University of Iowa and recommends everyone to view the eclipse as there won’t be another one for two decades

“We of course had the last one about seven years ago in 2017. That was the last Great American Eclipse. About every 20 years is when a total solar eclipse will be in the US.”

Although Iowa is not in the line of totality and will only see a partial solar eclipse, there are several major US cities that will see the full event, including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Buffalo.