See it! 2017’s Perseid meteor shower

Despite a bright moon, the brightest Perseids put on a good show. See photos from the EarthSky community here.

The story behind the 2017 eclipse stamp

A 1st-of-its-kind stamp that changes when you touch it, commemorating the August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse. Fred Espenak - whose photos are on the new stamp - tells the story.

Eclipse day checklist

This checklist - from eclipse master Fred Espenak - will help you plan the perfect total solar eclipse experience! Do your homework and the only other thing you’ll need is perfect weather on August 21!

Total eclipse of sun: August 21, 2017

All you need to know about the 1st total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. since 1979, from eclipse master Fred Espenak.

Earth’s eclipses are special

Solar eclipses aren't exclusive to Earth, but eclipses viewed from our planet have few rivals in the solar system. A word about Earth's solar eclipses, and what eclipses would be like on other planets, here.

A shadow-band project for August 21

Shadow bands are elusive ripples of alternate light and dark, flitting over the ground or the sides of buildings during a total solar eclipse. How to take part in an International Shadow Band Campaign during the August 21 eclipse.

Jupiter at east quadrature July 6

It's a hallmark in Jupiter's appearance in our sky. At eastern quadrature, Jupiter is highest in the sky around 6 p.m. local time

Solar eclipse safe viewing tips

If you're planning to watch the August 21 total solar eclipse (and we hope you are!) take a minute to watch this video on how to watch safely.

How much traffic on eclipse day?

Expert analysis showing how many people - and how much traffic congestion - can be expected along the path of the August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse.

NASA’s plans for August 21 eclipse

Not traveling to the centerline of the eclipse? Expect NASA images via 11 spacecraft, at least 3 aircraft, more than 50 high-altitude balloons, and the International Space Station.