While Massachusetts is not within the path of totality for the approaching April 8 solar eclipse, the astronomical sight will still be visible as a partial eclipse from Dartmouth.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. Monday’s eclipse will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, according to NASA. 

From the Dartmouth area, about 90% of an eclipse will be visible at 3:29 p.m. Monday, April 8, according to NASA mapping.

Special glasses are required to safely view the eclipse, as looking directly at the sun can injure the eyes. These glasses are different from standard sunglasses. 

Looking at the sun through a camera, binoculars or telescope — even with eclipse glasses — is unsafe and can cause eye injury. A special-purpose solar filter must be secured over the equipment’s optics in order to safely look at the eclipse.

Eclipse glasses are no longer available at the Dartmouth libraries, but some may be available at surrounding library locations.