What can you do when the Earth plunges into total darkness on Aug. 21? Eat, of course! And there are many space-themed treats to keep the skywatching party going.
And telescopes and binoculars only amplify the risk to your eyes from looking at the sun, doctors say. So even if you're not in the "path of totality," take precautions if you plan to watch.
Throughout human history, solar eclipses have been seen as having great religious significance, often as omens or signs of divine warning or punishment. Major and minor religions alike have their own understandings.
If you're one of the lucky ones, you'll get to watch the eclipse from the deck of a cruise ship specially chartered for sky watchers. Bonnie Tyler will sing her hit: "Total Eclipse of the Heart."
Unlike other cargo vehicles, the SpaceX spacecraft can return to Earth without burning up. So it's equipped with freezers for transporting medical samples — and the occasional frozen treat.
This week, a rocket bound for the International Space Station lifted off with 6,400 pounds of supplies. Along with the provisions, medical supplies and experiments, NASA astronauts will be getting a special care package with ice cream.
Newton and Einstein had big ideas, but needed an eclipse to prove them. And scientists are still pursuing secrets of the universe one eclipse at a time.