Solar eclipse, meteor shower, or auroras: Visual spectacle coming to U.S. territory

Stargazers in the United States can anticipate a partial solar eclipse on August 12, with the phenomenon being most visible in Alaska and the northeastern parts of the country. While the total solar eclipse will traverse Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Portugal, and northern Russia, U.S. viewers will only witness a portion of the sun obscured by the moon.

Anchorage, Alaska, is expected to offer the best view, with nearly a quarter of the solar disk covered. Northeastern states like Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire will experience slightly larger coverage than cities like New York or Boston, though still below 25%.

Adding to the celestial excitement, the eclipse coincides with the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, promising a dazzling display for skywatchers. However, the possibility of seeing auroras borealis during the eclipse is considered remote and primarily confined to very high-latitude regions such as Iceland or northern Russia, not typically visible within the continental U.S.

For the Latin community residing in northern states like Alaska or Maine, the partial eclipse will be the main attraction. Clear, dark skies away from urban light pollution will also offer opportunities to view the Perseid meteor shower, which is active during this period.