See the total solar eclipse pathway in Louisiana
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The total solar eclipse is coming April 8, and we'll get a decent view of it here in southeast Louisiana.
Why it matters: It's really cool! Plus, it'll be another 20 years before the U.S. gets another good look at an eclipse, according to a Washington Post map.
The big picture: The path of totality (or, the places that will get the most covered-up view of the sun) stretches kind of like a beauty queen sash across the U.S. from southwestern Texas to Maine.
- That's led to a lot of travel plans as people angle for the best view, with Texas cities as favorite destinations.
- In New Orleans, we'll see about 82% of the sun covered by the moon, NASA says. But the farther northwest in the state you go, the better that view will be.
Yes, but: You really shouldn't look at the eclipse without some proper eye protection.
- To be safe, you'll need eclipse glasses or viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2, writes Axios' Analis Bailey.
- "Sunglasses, smoked glass, unfiltered telescopes or magnifiers and polarizing filters can transmit far more sunlight than is safe for our eyes and should not be used as substitutes," American Optometric Association's president Ronald L. Benner told Axios.
What's next: If you can wait until 2052, you won't have to go anywhere to see a total solar eclipse pass right over New Orleans, according to the Washington Post map.
Go deeper for more on the proper eyewear
Editor's note: This story was updated on April 5 with NASA's estimate of 82% totality in New Orleans.