On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse, known as the Great North American Eclipse, will briefly leave millions of people in the dark. Charlotte will experience a partial eclipse, which means 80% of the wonder will grace our skies.

You’ll need special eclipse glasses to watch without damaging your eyes. Look for glasses rated by the American Astronomical Society. The films are darker than those of regular sunglasses and will protect your eyes.

There are opportunities around Charlotte to see the spectacle:

Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St., Charlotte | Eclipse glasses will be available to general admission guests and members.
Lake Norman State Park, 1412 State Park Rd., Statesville | A limited supply of eclipse glasses will be available.
Grandfather Mountain, 2025 Blowing Rock Hwy., Linville | The first 100 guests get a pair of glasses with admission.

If you want to head to a local park, find an area with little tree cover, like Freedom Park or Romare Bearden Park.

The next solar eclipse will be in 2044. The next eclipse where Charlotte will experience darkness will be in May 2078.