How often total solar eclipses happen — and why today's event is so rare

On April 8, a rare total solar eclipse will create a "path of totality" over North America, throwing swaths of the United States, Canada and Mexico into darkness in the middle of the day. 

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking our view of the sun as it passes. It's called a total solar eclipse when the moon completely blocks the light of the sun. These events are rare, and can only be viewed in specific areas for short periods of time. 

The path of totality for the 2024 total solar eclipse will arc from Texas to the East Coast. Cities including Dallas, Texas; Buffalo, New York; and Burlington, Vermont, will be among the areas with the best views — if the weather is clear.