How the solar eclipse will help NASA [Video]

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – It’s not just an historic sky show for Americans in the path of the total eclipse of the sun.

“It’s a rare sight we haven’t seen in seven years,” NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said.

On April 8th, millions of Americans will put on funny glasses and look to the sky to see a total eclipse of the sun.

“As the moon passes in front, in between the Sun and the Earth,” Nelson said.

While those of us in the path of the eclipse will marvel at the show, as day turns into night, NASA says this is also a serious scientific event.

“The eclipse gives us a unique opportunity to collect data that may give insights into the future of our star,” NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy said.

Melroy said a major focus will be on the Sun’s corona, the outermost part of the Sun’s atmosphere.

“This …