How to View Sunday's Solar Eclipse

A solar eclipse is expected to be visible across much of the western U.S. on Sunday, and Griffith Observatory is planning a public viewing. 

In the hours before sunset on Sunday, the Earth's moon will pass in front of the sun – the eclipse will be between 5:24 p.m. and 7:42 p.m.

"Called an annular solar eclipse, the moon and sun will exactly align Sunday, May 20, creating a "ring of fire" around the moon because of the sun's larger apparent size," reported the Huffington Post.

The last solar eclipse visible in the U.S. was in 1994. In Los Angeles, Sunday's eclipse is the most extensive since 1992, according to the observatory.

The Griffith Observatory's telescope will be outfitted with special filters, and viewing-glasses will be available for purchase.

NASA warns that people should never observe a solar eclipse with the naked eye, only through filtered telescopes and special glasses. To learn more about the eclipse, visit NASA's website.

The Los Angeles Times offered two ways, shared by the Huffington Post, to safely view Mother Nature's show:

• Make a pinhole projector
• Use binoculars to project the eclipse on a white card

Where to View Nearby

Since closes at 8 p.m. on weekends during daylight saving time you could try to head there and watch the show as long as you have a safe way to view it.

One destination to catch a stunning vista is the , which ascends 1500 feet toward the ridgeline of the mountain and is not far from civilization.

To get to the site from the 210 Freeway heading west, take the La Crescenta Avenue exit. Turn right to continue onto Oakmont View Drive followed by a left on Barnes Circle Drive.

Continue for a third of a mile and then make a right onto Beaudry Terrace. Drive down Beaudry Terrace until it becomes Beaudry Boulevard, the destination is on the right. Look for large fence and a concrete wash marking the path.

The actual trail head is beyond the main gate next to the wash. Remember to always bring a head lamp, tell someone where you’re going and watch your step.

offers these local viewing options:

Remember to check park hours before entering.

offers these spots:

• Cobb Estate
• Eaton Canyon

Traveling up Highway 2 into the Angeles National Forest would likely be the best local option.

Are you planning to view Sunday's solar eclipse? How are you viewing it? Have you seen an eclipse before? Tell us in the comments.