The first total eclipse over New York in 99 years will be visible on April 8. It's a sight not to be missed. Should you skip this one, the next total solar eclipse that can be seen in the United States will be in 2044 (visible in North Dakota and Montana) and 2045 (crossing from California to Florida.)

In addition to New York, the eclipse will travel through 11 other states. 

According to the state Department of Economic Development, the eclipse will begin in western New York shortly after 2 p.m. Full totality will begin in Chautauqua County at 3:17 p.m. moving through the state to Plattsburgh at 3:25 p.m. While the Hudson Valley will not be in the path of totality — although those not in that path will see between 88 and 99 percent coverage, says the governor's office — there are ways to view the eclipse.

How to safely view the eclipse

Do not look at the sun directly during the eclipse. Sunglasses will not protect your eyes, only use International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers from a trusted source.