Get Ready! April 8 total solar eclipse viewing guide [Video]

April 8 will provide millions of Americans with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: the chance to witness a total solar eclipse without leaving home. 

Nearly 31 million Americans will be on the total solar eclipse path of totality. Millions of others will be within a short drive of the path of totality. 

You may have seen a lot of news coverage leading up to the big day but still might need clarification on the hype. Don’t worry! Almost everything you need to know about the April 8 total solar eclipse is here. 

SEE MORE: NASA shares plans for April’s total solar eclipse

What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse happens when the moon gets directly in between the Earth and the sun. Essentially, the moon is casting its shadow on the Earth. 

These events can only ever happen during the new moon phase. A lunar cycle takes 29.5 days, but solar eclipses don’t always happen during new moons. Usually, the moon’s shadow goes just above or …