The much-anticipated total solar eclipse is finally here, creating a celestial spectacle in the skies over the United States, Mexico, and Canada. After a nearly seven-year wait, millions of people are gearing up to witness this extraordinary event.

The eclipse will first make its appearance over the South Pacific Ocean before journeying across North America. The path of totality, where the moon will completely block the sun from view, spans an estimated 32 million people across the US. This breathtaking phenomenon is expected to last between 3 ½ and 4 minutes for those along the center line of the path, according to NASA.

For those in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, a total solar eclipse will be visible. However, weather conditions may impact visibility. Outside the path of totality, a partial solar eclipse, where the moon appears to take a crescent-shaped “bite” out of the sun, will be visible.

CNN will be providing live coverage of the solar eclipse for those unable to witness it in person. It’s important to ensure safety when viewing the eclipse by using certified eclipse glasses or a solar viewer. Proper eye protection is crucial, as looking at the sun without the dark filter of eclipse glasses or solar viewers can cause permanent eye damage known as solar retinopathy.

For those worried about the authenticity of their eclipse glasses, there are simple ways to test them. Additionally, making a pinhole projector is an easy alternative for safely observing the eclipse. While totality is the most anticipated phase of the total solar eclipse, there are other special phases to watch for before the event reaches its climax.