"Where to Witness the Spectacular 'Ring of Fire' Solar Eclipse in Texas, California, and Orlando"

An annular solar eclipse will be visible across the Western Hemisphere on October 14, including parts of the U.S. and Mexico. San Antonio is inside the direct path of optimal viewing, while Austin will have a shorter viewing time. NASA recommends using specialized eye protection for safe viewing, and five million solar eclipse glasses will be distributed to libraries across the nation. Retail chains also sell certified eclipse glasses. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes in front of the sun, while a lunar eclipse is when the Earth blocks the sun's light from hitting the moon. The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. will occur on April 8, 2024.