If you missed the "blood moon" earlier this month, here's your chance to see another unusual arrangement of the heavenly bodies. Thursday brings a partial solar eclipse, with the moon passing between the Earth and the sun just enough to take a "bite" out of our star during the late afternoon or early evening — and for some lucky viewers, during sunset. Nearly everywhere in America, Canada and Mexico will be able to see the eclipse, though it's those up north who will be treated to the biggest share of the moon's shadow. The action starts at about 6 p.m. on the East Coast, where the sun will appear to lose a piece of its disc as it dips below the horizon — likely to be an extremely striking sight. Unfortunately, New England is left out of the fun; the sun will set there just before the moon's shadow touches down. On the West Coast, the show begins at around 2 p.m., so no sunset viewing, but the eclipse will be far more distinct. Alaska will have the best view — about 70 percent of the sun will be blocked out. Sky and Telescope has a list of timing and maximum coverage for most major cities, and you can visit this website to see an animated version of what to expect. If you plan to view the eclipse in person, remember: Don't look directly at the sun! It may be partly obscured, but all it takes is a sliver of sun on an unprotected eye to cause eye damage or even blindness. Read more http://www.nbcnews.com/science/space/partial-solar-eclipse-will-darken-your-thursday-n231801
