The Brief A total solar eclipse will take place on August 12. A total solar eclipse is taking place Aug. 12, and though it won’t be totally visible from the U.S., several northern states will be able to see a partial solar eclipse, NASA said. RELATED: See it: Partial solar eclipse puts on a show across New England, EuropeViewers should not look at the sun through a camera, telescope or binoculars while wearing eclipse glasses. NASA is expected to provide live views from locations along the eclipse path, along with commentary from scientists and eclipse experts. What's next:An exceptionally long total solar eclipse is in store for 2027, yielding nearly three times more observation time.