The total solar eclipse of August 21 will only be seen in Rhode Island as partial. About 70 percent of the Sun will be seen as covered in this region. Because of this, it is important not to look at the Sun directly; some form of eye protection must be used.

The easiest, and least expensive, is by using eclipse glasses, available at many venues within Rhode Island. Unfortunately, it has been learned that some glasses that are not approved have been sold. The best way to discern the two: put them on. If you see anything at all, they are not the proper ones and throw them away.

The best way to observe the eclipse in Rhode Island is at one of the approved places that will be safely observing: Seagrave Memorial Observatory, Peeptoad Road, North Scituate; the Brown University green, behind Faunce House; Roger Williams Park, Museum of Natural History; East Providence Library, Grove Street; Pawtucket Public Library, Summer Street and Frosty Drew Observatory & Sky Theater in Ninigret Park off Route 1 in Charlestown. Others may be added, but all of these sites will have proper eclipse glasses, safe ways to observe, and all will be following the progression of the total solar eclipse by simulcast.

The solar eclipse starts at 1:30 p.m. and will continue until 4 p.m., with the maximum 66 percent eclipse occurring at 2:47 p.m.  This will be the best solar eclipse viewing in the area until April 8, 2024, when the next total eclipse path will pass over northern New England.