What is a total solar eclipse? Most people have either seen a total solar eclipse or have seen pictures of one. During a total eclipse, the new moon slips in front of the sun, and those in the center of the moon’s shadow on Earth see a total solar eclipse. Still, there is at least a partial solar eclipse that’s a lot closer than that. According to NASA, a partial solar eclipse on Jan. 14, 2029 will be observable in the Chicago area, covering nearly 60% of the sun’s surface.