A total solar eclipse is about to bring the moon’s central shadow to parts of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada. On April 8, the entire continent of North America will use solar eclipse glasses—whether free or otherwise—to watch the event.
About 652 million people will be something of the partial phases, with around 44 million witnessing a total solar eclipse, according to Timeanddate.
It’s national moment. For Mexicans, Americans and Canadians, it’s a time to put aside differences and be reminded that there are far bigger forces at play than human affairs.
It’s a day a generation of children and adults will never forget for the rest of their lives.
But what makes us different from previous generations? Aside from the fact that most will be clutching a smartphone during the whole thing, not much has changed—as these photos from the archives prove:
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.