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Ready for the eclipse?

 
Testing the equipment: Video and TV techs at Clemson University on Sunday try out different filters on the cameras they’ll be using during today’s solar eclipse in Clemson, S.C.
Testing the equipment: Video and TV techs at Clemson University on Sunday try out different filters on the cameras they’ll be using during today’s solar eclipse in Clemson, S.C.
Published Aug. 21, 2017

The moon will get in the way of the Florida sun today, an astronomical rarity that will turn daylight to dusk for a few minutes and have Floridians craning their necks toward the sky.

When to watch

The moon begins passing in front of the sun and casting a shadow at 1:17 p.m., and will cover 80 percent of the sun by 2:49 p.m. The eclipse ends at 4:14 p.m.

What to expect

The skies will darken as the moon covers more of the sun; temperatures may drop. You must wear special protective glasses to directly view the solar eclipse to prevent damage to your eyes.

Weather

It's Florida. In August. Scattered thunderstorms are always possible throughout the day. Clouds could affect what you see.

Viewing parties

You can safely view the eclipse from the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa through telescopes fitted with solar filters. St. Petersburg College is setting up telescopes at its Gibbs campus on Fifth Avenue N. For more options, see 3B

If you miss it

You only have six years to wait. The next solar eclipse to impact the United States is predicted for Oct. 14, 2023, when the moon will temporarily cover 60 percent of the sun in Tampa Bay.

Times staff