AAS Random Astro-Facts

Thanks to the American Astronomical Society, throughout Global Astronomy Month, we will be featuring a Random Astronomy Fact everyday! Come back daily or tune into our social media channels to find out what is the fact of the day!

In path of Moon's dark inner shadow, total eclipse is preceded & followed by partial eclipse.

Center of Moon's umbral shadow crosses 12 states from Oregon to South Carolina on August 21.

August 21st solar eclipse will be total in parts of 14 US states, partial in 36 others.

Last total solar eclipse to cross continental USA from coast to coast was June 8, 1918.

Maximum possible duration of total solar eclipse: 7 min 32 sec. On August 21st, 2 min 40 sec.