TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE APRIL 8, 2024

What is an eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, and the Moon blocks the Sun on Earth. During a total eclipse, the Moon lines up perfectly to fully obscure the Sun, resulting in "totality"; in a partial eclipse, the Moon and the Sun are not perfectly aligned, and only part of the Sun is blocked.  The fact that a total solar eclipse is visible from Earth only along a narrow path for a few short minutes makes totality one of nature's rarest events.

When is the next eclipse?

On April 8, 2024, Temple, Texas, will be in the path of totality for the sun's total eclipse. We will be one of the best places in the United States to experience this spectacular event, with 3 minutes and 43.6 seconds of totality.  It will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044. People viewing the eclipse from locations where the Moon’s shadow completely covers the Sun – known as the path of totality – will experience a total solar eclipse. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people along the path of totality will see the Sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the Sun.

Start of the partial phase "C1" - 12:19:22 

Start time of totality "C2"- 13:37:13

Countdown Timer

Where to watch the 2024 Eclipse in or near the path of Totality 

All you have to do to see the eclipse is go outside equipped with solar glasses. Head for an open area where there won’t be any obstructions between yourself and the sun for the best view.

Eye Safety

You should use specialized eye protection for solar viewing during a total solar eclipse. Eclipse glasses and hand-held solar viewers should meet the ISO 12312-2 international standards. It is only safe to look at a total eclipse without eclipse gasses during the brief " totality " period when the moon entirely blocks the sun.  Do not look at the eclipse through a camera lens, telescope or binoculars. These devices focus the sun’s rays and may damage your eyes.

The sun is so bright that looking straight at it—even when the moon partially obscures it—can cause serious damage to your eyes. It’s called solar retinopathy, and it can create blurry vision or a central blind point in your eye. These symptoms can be temporary…or permanent.

Temple Parks and Recreation are offering FREE eclipse glasses at their select facilities.  

Offer good while supplies last. 

Wilson Recreation Center, 2205 Curtis B Elliot Dr.

Summit Recreation Center, 620 Fyers Creek Dr.

Sammons Community Center, 2220 W Avenue D

Sammons Indoor Pool, 2220 W Avenue D

For more eclipse eye safety tips, visit NASA Science website.

Prep Tips

• Do not stop on the side of the road to view the eclipse. 
• Ensure you have sufficient gas, food, and essential items before the eclipse, as we expect increased visitor activity in the area. 
• Plan for possible delays and heavy cell usage. 
• Limit travel on the day of the eclipse and expect traffic delays.
• For more information on Texas state road conditions, visit drivetexas.org 

We will use this page to share information about how our community is preparing. In the meantime, you can learn more about the eclipse through these resources:​

Eclipse FAQ's

Upcoming Local Eclipse Events

If you would like to request to have your local eclipse event featured on our website, please email discovertemple@templetx.gov. 

Before and After the Eclipse