A solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves directly between the Earth and sun, blocking all or part of the sun’s light from reaching the planet. While a total solar eclipse is expected across Spain and other parts of Europe on Aug. 12, parts of North America, including New York City, are expected to experience the partial eclipse, meteorologists said — just not much of it. Certified eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard are required for direct viewing throughout the partial eclipse, meteorologists from AccuWeather said. Unlike during a total solar eclipse, there is no period during a partial eclipse when it is safe to look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Regular sunglasses do not provide adequate protection, experts said, and eclipse glasses that are torn, scratched or otherwise damaged should not be used.