The partial solar eclipse to take place today might be imperceptible in southwestern Pennsylvania, local astronomers say.
Solar eclipses occur when the moon passes between the sun and Earth and sweeps a shadow across the planet.
A partial eclipse, in which just part of the Earth is cast into darkness, looks as if the moon is taking a bite out of the sun. In Pittsburgh, however, that celestial bite will be "very, very minimal," said Wade Barbin, associate director of the Wagman Observatory in West Deer Township, Allegheny County.
Locally, the partial eclipse will be from 6:12 to 6:24 p.m. Astronomers warn people not to stare directly at the sun without eye protection.
