Partial Solar Eclipse Thursday: Here's How To See It In Wisconsin

WISCONSIN — Many Wisconsinites could start their morning with viewing the chance of a solar eclipse Thursday morning, as a partial annual solar eclipse will be visible in parts of the state's eastern side.

The eclipse is expected to be visible in Metro Milwaukee from 5:12 a.m. to 5:41 a.m. according to Time and Date. The maximum eclipse will be visible at 5:15 a.m.

An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon is farthest from Earth and appears smaller and doesn't completely block the view of the sun, resulting in a ring of light around the darkened moon.

NASA said that the northeastern United States, Europe and Russia will see a partial solar eclipse. The eclipse is expected to be visible in southern Wisconsin, with a 35% eclipse at 5:21 a.m., reports WKOW. But the partial eclipse will be viewable from America's Dairyland.

Of course, safety is important when viewing a solar eclipse — even one that won't be completely visible, as in Wisconsin. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the only safe way to look at the sun directly is through special solar filters.

If you miss Thursday's eclipse, you may have two more chances before the year is over. A partial lunar eclipse is expected to take place around Nov. 19, according to NASA. A total solar eclipse expected on Dec. 4 won't be viewable in North America.