eclipse

As the year draws to a close and the news cycle continues to reset every day, let's pause and revisit some of the most important news events from 2017.

Most people seem to have heeded the warning not to look at August's total eclipse without eye protection. But an unlucky few suffered serious injury, and doctors could see changes at a cellular level.

If you heeded all the warnings, you're likely fine. But spots or blurred vision that shows up 12 hours later or the next day might be a sign the sun's direct rays permanently hurt the retina.

A total solar eclipse began in Oregon and made its way to South Carolina starting at 1:16 p.m. ET. Take a look at where the eclipse was as it traveled across the United States.

It was dark during the day as a total solar eclipse traveled from Oregon to South Carolina. See highlights from the phenomenon's journey along with NPR journalists and others experiencing the eclipse.

NASA was on eclipse watch as the moon blocked the sun in a celestial coincidence Monday. A segment of the country from Oregon to South Carolina was in the so-called path of totality.

It is indeed dark during the day as a total solar eclipse makes its way from Oregon to South Carolina. Eleven states are in the path of total darkness.

What can you do when the Earth plunges into total darkness on Aug. 21? Eat, of course! And there are many space-themed treats to keep the skywatching party going.

And telescopes and binoculars only amplify the risk to your eyes from looking at the sun, doctors say. So even if you're not in the "path of totality," take precautions if you plan to watch.

During the day on Aug. 21, large swaths of farmland will be plunged into darkness, and temperatures will drop about 10 degrees. And scientists are waiting to see what happens on the ground.