cruise from florida to san diego

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Already Booked?
• My Favorites
• 1.800.377.9383
• Email Deals
• Personal Quote

• Advanced Search

• Featured Cruise Deals

• Deals by Destination

• Deals by Cruise Line

• Deals by Departure Port

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Holiday Cruise Deals

Military Cruise Deals

• Family Cruise Deals

Popular Destinations

Australia/New Zealand

• Canada / New England

Popular Int'l Departure Ports

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Barcelona, Spain

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Reykjavik, Iceland

Southampton, England

Stockholm, Sweden

Sydney, Australia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Venice, Italy

Popular U.S. Departure Ports

Baltimore, Maryland

Boston, Massachusetts

Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Los Angeles, California

Miami, Florida

New York, New York

Port Canaveral, Florida

San Francisco, California

Seattle, Washington

Popular Lines

Luxury Lines

River Lines

AmaWaterways

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Holland America Line

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Seabourn Cruise Line

Silversea Cruises

Uniworld River Cruises

Viking Expeditions

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Land Vacations

• Cosmos Tours
• Globus Journeys
• Kensington Tours
• Tauck Tours

All-Inclusive Resorts

Cruising 101

• Free Consultation

Why Cruise?

Shore Excursions

Cruising Tips

Future Cruise Credits

Photo Galleries

Specialty Cruises

Group Cruises

Business / Incentive Cruises

Events & Meetings at Sea

Private Charters

Theme Cruises

• River Cruises

Cruise Tours

Wedding Cruises

Hosted Cruises

Family Cruises

Senior Living at Sea

News & Media

Press & News

Testimonials

Social Media

Pre-registration

Passports / Visas

Travel Protection

Why Cruise Web?

Our Approach

Low Price Guarantee

Gift Certificates

Customer Service

Not sure where to start?

Talk to a travel consultant.

Free quotes. Expert guidance. No booking fees.

16 Night Miami To San Diego

Exotic treasures and natural delights abound from pearls to palm trees—all aboard a wonderful Caribbean cruise.

In Miami, you’ll enjoy a small taste of the tropical weather many of you will experience during your cruise, and you’ll see why Miami is one of the most popular places to live in America.

• Crystal Serenity - Passenger Capacity: 1,080 Year Built: 2003 Last Refurbished: 2016

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

Cruise Line

Cruise Ship

Crystal Serenity

Departing From

Destination

Ports of call.

Miami, Florida , Georgetown, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands , Cartagena, Colombia , Colon, Panama , Puerto Quepos, Costa Rica , Acapulco, Mexico , Cabo San Lucas, Mexico , San Diego, California

Special Promotions*

Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit* - TCW Exclusive

• Itinerary & Pricing

16 Night Miami To San Diego sailing on the Crystal Serenity

Departure dates: jun 2024 - jun 2024.

From $8,500

Stateroom prices for Jun. 8, 2024

Published prices from

Based on Oceanview cabin prices

Based on Balcony cabin prices

Based on Suite cabin prices

Sailing Map

*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

We Make Vacation Planning Easy

With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money.

Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Find a cruise.

• All Cruise Types
• Popular Cruises
• Luxury Cruises

Vacation Deals

Destinations & ports.

• All Destinations

Cruise Lines

• Popular Cruise Lines
• Luxury Cruise Lines
• River Cruise Lines
• All Cruise Lines
• All About Cruising
• Already Booked

Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.

• Monthly Newsletter

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• San Diego Tourism
• San Diego Hotels
• San Diego Vacation Rentals
• Flights to San Diego
• San Diego Restaurants
• Things to Do in San Diego
• San Diego Travel Forum
• San Diego Photos
• San Diego Map
• All San Diego Hotels
• Last Minute Hotels in San Diego
• Four Points (Marriott Bonvoy) Hotels in San Diego
• Hyatt Regency Hotels in San Diego
• Hilton Garden Inns in San Diego
• Residence Inns (Marriott Bonvoy) in San Diego
• Homewood Suites by Hilton in San Diego
• Choice Hotels in San Diego
• Westin (Marriott Bonvoy) Hotels in San Diego
• Hilton Hotels in San Diego
• Marriott Hotels in San Diego
• Howard Johnson Hotels in San Diego
• Best Western Hotels in San Diego
• Motel 6 Hotels in San Diego
• Hotels near (SAN) San Diego Intl Airport
• Hotels near (TIJ) Rodriguez Airport
• Hotels near (CLD) Carlsbad Airport
• The Mirage Hotel & Casino
• Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana
• Moon Palace The Grand - Cancun
• Moon Palace Cancun
• The Land Of Legends Kingdom Hotel
• Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen
• The Venetian Resort
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun
• Crystal Land Of Paradise
• Hotel Xcaret Mexico
• Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
• Temptation Cancun Resort
• Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya
• Beaches Turks & Caicos
• Excellence Oyster Bay
• Popular All-Inclusive Resorts
• Popular Beach Resorts
• Popular Family Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Hotels
• Popular Hotels With Waterparks
• Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Popular Luxury Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• Popular Golf Resorts
• Popular Spa Resorts
• Popular Cheap Resorts
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from California to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Florida to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from San Francisco to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Boston to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from New York City to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Seattle to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Barbados to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from San Juan to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Montreal to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Southampton to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from London to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Rio de Janeiro to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Buenos Aires to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Cape Town to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Africa
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Antarctica
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to South America
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Louisiana
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Maine
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Massachusetts
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Rhode Island
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Washington
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Santa Barbara
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Key West
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Portland
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Bayonne
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Norfolk
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Bar Harbor
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Boston
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Astoria
• Carnival Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Celebrity Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Crystal Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Cunard Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Holland America Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Princess Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Royal Caribbean Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Silversea Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Costa Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Carnival Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Celebrity Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Crystal Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Cunard Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Holland America Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Princess Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Royal Caribbean Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Silversea Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• Costa Cruises to Fort Lauderdale
• 3 to 5 Day Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• 6 to 9 Day Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• 10 to 14 Day Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• 15+ Day Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• 3 to 5 Day Fort Lauderdale Cruises
• 6 to 9 Day Fort Lauderdale Cruises
• 10 to 14 Day Fort Lauderdale Cruises
• 15+ Day Fort Lauderdale Cruises
• Fort Lauderdale Family Cruises
• Fort Lauderdale Luxury Cruises
• Family Cruises out of Fort Lauderdale
• Luxury Cruises out of Fort Lauderdale
• GreenLeaders
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Cheap San Diego Cruises from Fort Lauderdale

• United States    
• California (CA)    
• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

21 Night Cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America

• You want a more traditional, upscale cruise on a bigger ship
• You appreciate having a multitude of different dining choices
• You want plenty of activities but nothing overly wild or crazy
• You are looking for a ship with elaborate children's facilities
• You want an all-inclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite complex
• You prefer intimate, adult-oriented vacation experiences

14 Night Cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America

23 night cruise to the panama canal & central america.

• You want that Princess style on a smaller, less-crowded ship
• You like having public rooms with bright, oversized windows
• You appreciate a classy, more traditional style of cruising
• You want a ship that screams nonstop-action at every turn
• You're expecting thrilling amenities like themed splash parks

22 Night Cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America

• You want a big ship with lots of classy fun for all ages
• You enjoy live music and plenty of enrichment activities
• You're happy with good quality service and a relaxing vibe
• You enjoy strolling on a true wraparound promenade deck
• You miss the more intimate feeling of the line's smaller ships

20 Night Cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America

28 night cruise to the panama canal & central america.

• You want a cruise that harkens to the glory days of travel
• You want a classy cruise on a big ship at a reasonable price
• You don't need a lot of crazy activities during the day
• You want a flashy cruise with cutting-edge onboard diversions
• You prefer a vacation experience with nonstop nightlife
• You expect an all-inclusive product; extra charges abound

17 Night Cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America

15 night cruise to the panama canal & central america, 19 night cruise to the panama canal & central america, 18 night cruise to the caribbean.

• You want an adult-centric luxury cruise on a well-sized ship
• You appreciate exacting service and want amenities to match
• You value having gratuities, Wi-Fi and beverages included
• You like the more feature-rich Silver Spirit and Silver Muse
• You want vibrant nightlife; things quiet down fairly early

24 Night Cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America

31 night cruise to the panama canal & central america, 30 night cruise to the panama canal & central america, explore fort lauderdale.

• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• Eastern Caribbean
• Panama Canal
• Southern Caribbean
• Transatlantic
• Western Caribbean
• Azamara Club Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Crystal Cruises
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Virgin Voyages
• Ports Of Call

October 2023 cruise to San Diego, California

San Diego Weather

Find your next cruise to san diego out of miami in october 2023.

14-day Panama Canal from Miami, Fl

Disney magic, disney cruise line.

Date: October 5, 2023

Ports of Call: Miami, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Cartagena, Panama Canal, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, San Diego; View Itinerary

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Recently Viewed

Sign up for special offers.

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Book a Flight
• Book a Hotel
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Required Travel Documents
• Make a Payment
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• Update Guest Information
• Beverage Packages​
• Dining Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Transportation
• Royal Gifts
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

Cruise from San Diego, California

San diego shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in san diego.

Park It in Balboa

Balboa Park's Casa de Balboa Building in San Diego, California

With 1,200 acres of hiking trails, fountains, beautiful architecture, gardens and museums it is easy to spend an entire day getting lost in Balboa Park. There are also venues located in the park featuring numerous performing arts shows like concerts, plays and youth ballet performances.

Man the Cockpit

USS midway aircraft carrier in beautiful sky, in San Diego, California

From the engine room to the flight deck, the USS Midway museum is home to 60 carefully preserved exhibit areas and 30 restored aircraft taking you on a unique warship journey the moment you step on board. You'll be able to climb into the cockpits, explore where the crew lived and even take a tour of the Captain's and Admiral's quarters.

Urban Oasis

Another wide-open space right in San Diego is Torrey Pines Natural Reserve. Stretching across 1,500 acres of undeveloped land, you'll find unspoiled beaches, a lagoon and jaw-dropping landscapes. If hiking, enjoying a seaside picnic and Pacific Ocean views are your thing, you've come to the right place.

Local Cuisine

San Diego's cuisine is the definition of diverse. Tuck into the Mexican-inspired but decidedly non-authentic local favorite of carne asada fries topped with slices of shaved beef, cotija, crema and guacamole. Indulge in decadent New American dishes like the duck fat fries at Searsucker. Italian more your style? Head to Cucina Urbana for pasta made with fresh, seasonal ingredients like local herbs and tomatoes.

The shopping is endless in San Diego. Be sure to grab a local souvenir from Noon Designs. Choose from handcrafted jewelry, letterpress printed cards and goods by local artisans. If you're looking for something a little more mainstream while still keeping it local, head to The Gaslamp Quarter or Del Mar Plaza. Jump onbpoard a San Diego cruise and check out Old Town Market for unique, handcrafted tchotchkes like the animal-themed decor at Love My Pet.

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single occupancy generally costs 100% more. Prices are subject to change and are not guaranteed until your card has been charged.

We don't set prices-- we just find the best deals and display them for you. While we work hard to keep prices completely accurate, they change quickly based on time and availability. With almost 12,000 cruises tracked, it's not possible to be 100% accurate all of the time. The price you see upon checkout will be your final price.

Prices are displayed in local currencies for convenience, but will be booked in USD.

Get Last Minute Cruise Deals!

Signup for free and get notified of the best cruise deals from places like Ft. Lauderdale, like $483 for 11 days from Florida, or NYC to Bahamas for $299.

Price Drop Alert

Be the first to know when this cruise drops in price. Enter your email and the price at which you want to be notified.

San Diego Cruise Guide > Cruise Destinations > Panama Canal

Panama Canal Cruises from San Diego

Three cruise lines offer cruises through the Panama Canal from San Diego. They are one-way trips that end in Florida or Texas. All go fully through the canal, and they visit resort ports along the way. See the schedule of departures below.

This time-lapse video shows a full transit of a cruise ship through the Panama Canal in just 5 minutes. The actual trip was more than 10 hours.

The Panama Canal is 100 years old, and is one of the engineering marvels of the world. A voyage through the canal is a real "must do" adventure. See an interesting 100 years of the Panama Canal in 10 photos gallery by PBS.

January 19, 2024: 15-day Panama Canal cruise on Holland America Line . One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Corinto (Nicaragua), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, Cartagena (Colombia) and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas).

April 6, 2024: 15-day Panama Canal cruise on Holland America Line . One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Corinto (Nicaragua), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, Cartagena (Colombia) and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas).

October 4, 2024: 16-day Panama Canal cruise on Holland America Line . One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Chiapas (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, and Aruba.

October 10, 2024: 16-day Panama Canal cruise on Holland America Line . One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Chiapas (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, and Aruba.

January 3, 2025: 15-night Panama Canal cruise on Holland America Line . One-way from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Corinto (Nicaragua), Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, Cartagena (Colombia) and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas).

July 3, 2025: 20-night Panama Canal cruise on Oceania . One-way from San Diego to New York (New York). Visit Ensenada (Mexico), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Zihuatanejo (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Corinto (Nicaragua), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), the Panama Canal, Cartagena (Colombia), Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands), Miami (Florida) and Port Canaveral (Florida).

October 18, 2025: 14-night Panama Canal cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from San Diego to Miami (Florida). Visit Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), Acapulco (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Panama City (Panama), Cartagena (Colombia) and Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands).

Cruise passengers depart San Diego for solar eclipse journey

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — More than 2,400 passengers set sail aboard a Holland America cruise ship from San Diego on Friday, embarking on a journey to witness Monday's solar eclipse in its "path of totality."

“The eclipse is just a huge bonus,” said Mary Schimanke. She and her husband Hans traveled from Canada for the unique cruising experience.

“Even if it’s only 5 minutes or so it’s very exciting … I think everybody is going to be out on deck,” said Schimanke.

On board, UC San Diego Astronomy and Astrophysics professor Adam Burgasser will offer special lectures.

“So we’re going to be catching it right at the start of the totality path,” said Burgasser, who will be helping passengers experience the eclipse safely.

“These glasses protect the eyes. They block out everything,” he said.

The 22-day cruise commences in San Diego, then sails to Mexico, where passengers will witness the eclipse off the coast, followed by stops in Hawaii before concluding in Vancouver.

"It’s a special thing to have the Koningsdam here in San Diego to mark this solar eclipse,” said Adam Deaton, Principal of Cruise Business at the Port of San Diego.

Deaton said it’s an epic experience for guests and a boost for San Diego businesses.

“Every time a cruise line such as Holland America starts or ends a cruise in San Diego, that’s two million dollars injected into the local economy,” he said.

For those remaining in San Diego, a partial solar eclipse will be visible on Monday, peaking around 11:11 a.m.

The Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is offering proper protective eyewear and hosting a viewing party on Monday.

Sign up for the Breaking News Newsletter and receive up to date information.

Now signed up to receive the breaking news newsletter..

Nominate a Leader Today!

• Close 

We are taking a 4 day cruise out of San Diego on 4/14. Our flight arrives at 10am and our Port arrival time is at 1:45pm. Can we drop off our luggage before our Port Arrival time or do you have any suggestions for a party of 11 and their luggage? ”

• Useful 1 Useful Please Sign In to mark this question useful.
• Save Answer Please Sign In to view your saved answers.
•  Pinterest
•  Facebook
•  Email

Meet the Panelist: Tracie, Florida

Ahoy! Just like Moana, I feel the irresistible call of the sea. I think the best vacation is aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship – thankfully, my family agrees. Whether savoring gelato in Italy, snorkeling in Mexico, or basking in the sea breeze on deck, each destination fills us with memories to last a lifetime. I look forward to helping your family plan a Disney Cruise Line adventure brimming with cherished moments!

Related Video

Related Links

Visit Disney Cruise Line to view exciting itineraries and onboard amenities.

• Disney Cruise Line Itineraries

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please sign in now if you have not already done so., ask plandisney, discover the magic of a disney parks family vacation from one of our knowledgeable online panelists..

256 Characters Remaining

Please do not include personal information such as full names and reservation numbers in your question.

• Relevant Tags Please select at least one tag related to your question from the choices below.

The menu below has been automatically set to the panelist you were reviewing, however, you can ask anyone on our panel.

• Close Ask a Question Opens the Ask a Question dialog box.

Thanks for submitting your question!

You'll receive an email if your question is answered., please note.

Email communication is the only way we can notify you when your question has been answered. If you choose to opt-out of receiving emails, you will need to return to the site to check if your question has been answered.

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer .

Or you can continue browsing without updating.

Total solar eclipse 2024: Watch video and see photos of the sky spectacle

E AGLE PASS, Texas − In a moment of cosmic alignment that was precisely predicted yet undeniably mysterious , the moon crept across the face of the sun as seen from Earth, casting its shadow onto the United States on Monday.

And then it was over: A total eclipse of the sun has come and gone.  

The partial shadow crossed into the U.S. in Texas just after noon local time, and a bit more than an hour later, the minutes of “totality” began. The total eclipse of the sun then traced a path from southern Texas to northern Maine, where it exited into Canada and the ocean beyond.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

The rare event was an astronomical experience like no other. Monday's eclipse was unusually accessible to millions of people. It was widely anticipated not only for its remarkable period of darkness, but for its rare timing: No total solar eclipse would be visible from the contiguous United States again until 2044. While millions of Americans may have seen today’s eclipse, a small group in Texas was among the very first.

Edge of eclipse shadow began in south Texas

Alejandra Martinez, a seventh-grade science teacher from the south Texas border city of Eagle Pass, peered up at the gray, gauzy sky, anxiously awaiting the solar eclipse’s entrance into the USA.

Sitting with a telescope under a camping canopy in a corner of the county airport, Martinez, 42, and two other science enthusiasts had been recruited by NASA to participate in an effort called Citizen CATE 2024, where more than 30 teams perched in the eclipse’s path will record the shadowy trek across the country. 

In this spot, less than five miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, she and her team would be among the first people in the U.S. to witness the phenomenon. Eagle Pass sits near the very beginning of the eclipse’s track from southwest to northeast across the country. It also sits very near dead-center of it, where the period of “totality” will be the longest. That total shadow was still more than an hour away when the edge of the shadow began to darken the sky.

Martinez, dressed in a “This Totality Rocks” T-shirt and eclipse-themed skirt, watched as the penumbra crept across the airfield, about 10 minutes past noon local time. She put on her eclipse glasses and peered up at the sky. The gauzy clouds parted. “There it is! There it is!” she yelled. “First contact. It’s begun!”

Clouds came and went as the shadow grew for the next hour. As totality approached Eagle Pass, the sky shaded a dull gray then a heavy brown and the temperature dropped a few degrees. Only a sliver of the sun remained.

A few seconds before 1:27 p.m. CT, the crowd counted down, “3..2..1…” The sun was gone, completely covered by the moon. Darkness spread over the small airport grounds. “Oh my god,” Martinez said, a hand covering her heart. “This is so cool!”

How to tell if you have eye damage from looking at a partial eclipse?

For those who took a chance and looked at the sun without protective eyewear during the eclipse, concerns may arise if their vision starts to seem impaired. Have they suffered eclipse blindness?

Looking directly at the sun even briefly without the proper safety glasses can result in eye damage, either temporary or permanent. The body's natural squinting reaction in normal circumstances prevents people from staring directly at the sun, but that reflex may not be activated during partial eclipses, even though a partly shielded sun can still burn the retina.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says pain won't be an indication of damaged eyes because the retina lacks pain nerves. Worrisome signs are instead blurry vision, headaches, light sensitivity, blind spots in the central vision, distorted vision and changes in color perception. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should see an ophthalmologist, the AAO says.

What was the timeline of the 2024 solar eclipse?

The total eclipse began in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It ended in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. Even those who weren't in the path of totality could see a percentage of the eclipse.

To find out exactly when the eclipse occurred in your area, you can search by  USA TODAY's database by ZIP code  for a viewing guide.

Students in Washington get hands-on learning

Dozens of students spilled out of Ida B. Wells Middle School in Washington, D.C., gripping cardboard solar eclipse glasses and chatting with excitement. “Why is the sun shaped as a moon?” one student asked after looking toward the sun. “Why is it not getting dark?’’ asked another.

Teacher Troy Mangum, who the students called “Mr. Mango,’’ slowly explained the science behind the experience as he cautioned others to put on their glasses. Students at the school in northwest D.C. had had lessons about the eclipse leading up the day’s teaching outside the classroom.

“Anytime we can get hands on or dynamic learning … it’s invaluable,’’ said Mangum, a social emotional learning coach. “We talked about it so much. It’s nice to see them get excited about qeeky Mr. Mango type of stuff.”

Skylar Cruel, 12, had come outside with her science class. “I just really wanted to see it,’’ she said. “You get to see it turn from light to dark.”

Steps away at Whittier Elementary School, which focuses on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), younger students put on their glasses and tilted their heads up toward the sun behind their school.

Michael Haile joined his daughter, Markan Worku, 9, a student at Whittier, and brought along his 5-year-old son, Keab. He called it a memorable experience for his children. Markan, who had been learning about solar eclipses in her third-grade class, simply said, “This is cool!’’ 

− Deborah Berry

In Michigan, a bonding experience for a mother and her three kids

In Michigan, eclipse enthusiasts packed a watch party along the Detroit Riverwalk near Cullen Plaza. They sat on the grass, on benches and berms. For Janelle Ikonen of Waterford, it was a chance to bond with her three children − Hannah, 9; Elim, 12; and Isaac, 14 − whom she took out of school for the day.

“I wanted to experience a unique event with them,” said Ikonen, 47. “It’s one of my big deals to me, to experience things with my kids. … I hope they’ll remember spending time with me.”

In Grand Rapids, where 94% coverage of the sun was expected, viewers gathered on the city's “Blue Bridge,” which offered a view of the eclipse over the Grand River. With no cloud cover over the city, visitors had an unobstructed scene. The Grand Rapids Public Museum set up a series of solar telescopes.

Jill and Wes Johnson, 50 and 14, were among those awaiting max coverage. They’d considered traveling from Grand Rapids to a place with total coverage, but decided 94% coverage was worthwhile enough to stay home.

“I think people are excited to see something unique,” Jill Johnson said.

− Georgea Kovanis and Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press

US women's soccer team takes in eclipse ahead of title game

COLUMBUS, Ohio − The U.S. women’s national soccer team took a break from SheBelieves Cup preparation to watch the eclipse. 

Several team members, including World Cup veterans Crystal Dunn, Alyssa Naeher, Naomi Girma and Trinity Rodman, coaches and staff members donned eclipse glasses and went outside their hotel to see the rare event.

As the sky darkened and the moon moved in front of the sun, someone yelled, “Come on, keep going!” Columbus is just outside the path of totality, so all but a sliver of the sun wound up being covered. 

The USWNT is in Columbus for the final of the SheBelieves Cup on Tuesday night against Canada.

− Nancy Armour

Witnessing the first total eclipse from a cruise ship

Passengers aboard Holland America's Koningsdam cruise ship eagerly gathered on the top decks at 10 a.m. local time to watch the spectacle of a solar eclipse.

Positioned off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico − the first city in North America to witness the total eclipse − the ship provided an ideal vantage point for viewing the celestial event. Accompanied by an astronomer, the captain meticulously adjusted the ship's position to ensure the best possible view.

Dan Fueller, an experienced eclipse observer who had previously seen similar phenomena from ships in 1991 and 1998, emphasized the advantages of viewing the eclipse from a cruise ship. He noted the flexibility of the ship's mobility allowed for optimal positioning along the eclipse's path, ensuring unobstructed views.

"You're on a cruise ship and (the best view) is a little bit farther to the west or a little bit farther to the east − along the path, there's a clear sky − the ship can move. If you're on land and there's not a road there, you better have a tank."

− Joshuan Rivera

Partial eclipse 'like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun'

In Parthenon, Arkansas, the eclipse began near the Buffalo National River. Five friends traveled from Florida to be on a rock outcropping to witness the celestial event.

“Yes! I see it!” Angie Printiss exclaimed.

“Oh ya! You can see it,” said Kate Estes. “It’s like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun.”

At 20 minutes before totality, the sky got noticeably darker. The shadow of crescent sun shapes played off the limestone rocks.

“It looks like water − like fish scales,” Estes said. “That is so weird, when the trees move you can really see it.”

− Jennifer Portman

New Englanders travel for better view of the eclipse

Crowds ballooned into the thousands midday Monday in the center of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, as the nearly cloudless sky and warm sun boosted temperatures to an unseasonably 60 degrees.

Jim and Kim Cooper drove over from New Hampton, New Hampshire, their first time doing more than just passing through the town locals call St. Jays. Their son had proposed to his girlfriend in Tennessee during the 2017 eclipse and then had an eclipse-themed wedding, but the Coopers had never seen a total eclipse for themselves, so they decided to come to the closest place where they could be assured of a good view.

Jeffrey Breau had seen that 2017 eclipse for himself and was so impressed that he convinced family members to join him this time. Breau’s girlfriend, Nell Hawley, came up with him from Cambridge, Massachusetts, while his brother Alex and his girlfriend Diana Ventura drove up from New York City. The Breau brothers' father, Walter, joined them in taking in their first eclipse.

“I would have been OK watching it in the yard,” Walter said, though he would only have seen a partial eclipse from there. “That’s what you think now,” Jeffrey said quickly. “Talk to me in two hours.”

− Karen Weintraub

Kids bring homemade eclipse viewers to National Mall

Lucas and Lucy Porto Banco didn’t need to buy fancy eclipse glasses – the 7- and 10-year-old siblings made their own eclipse viewers from two cardboard shoe boxes left over from a couple of their mom’s recent shoe purchases.With the help of a YouTube tutorial video, they made two holes in each box with a whittling knife and taped tin foil over. Then they used dry spaghetti to poke holes in the tin foil for the sun’s light to pass through and project onto the dark inside of the box.The kids put together the viewer in little more than five minutes, Lucy said. “Maybe 15, with covering all the gaps in the shoe box,” she said.Even with his own eclipse-viewing creation, Lucas said he may still take advantage of his eclipse glasses. “I’m going to do both,” he said.

− Cybele Mayes-Osterman

What is an 'umbra?' − and other eclipse words

Astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts used a bunch of specialized words Monday as the nation experienced its first solar eclipse since 2017 and the last one for until 2044. Here are a few of those terms and what they mean, according to the American Astronomical Society .

Baily's Beads – This refers to the beaded appearance of the moon's edge as the eclipse nears totality. Shafts of sunlight shine through deep valleys on the moon's surface, which causes the effect known to observers as Bailey's Beads.

Umbra – The darkest part of the moon’s shadow, within which the entirety of the sun's bright face is blocked. An observer standing in the umbra sees a total solar eclipse.

Penumbra: The lighter part of the moon's shadow, making up its outer portion, where light can reach.

Corona – The sun’s upper atmosphere, visible as a pearly glow around the eclipsed sun during totality.

Totality – The maximum phase of a total solar eclipse, during which the moon’s disk completely covers the sun's bright face. It can last from a fraction of a second to a maximum of 7 minutes, 31 seconds, depending on viewing location and other factors.

− Dale Denwalt, The Oklahoman

A last-minute search for glasses for 'a perfect spot'

Patsy Faoro walked toward a half dozen people gathered at the gate of Turner Farm Park in Great Falls, Virginia. The people were awaiting the opening of an eclipse viewing event complete with telescopes and educational presentations.

Faoro, who lives near the park in this upscale Northern Virginia neighborhood, just wanted glasses to safely view the eclipse.

She visited CVS, Safeway and a 7/11 convenience store, all of which had advertised the availability of glasses to view the eclipse. None of the retailers had any glasses remaining when Faoro checked this morning.

“We have this great big open space that’s a perfect spot,” said Faoro, who viewed her first eclipse in the 1970s. “We just need some glasses.”

− Ken Alltucker

Indianapolis Motor Speedway event draws tens of thousands

Tory Patrick, 41, is hoping to give her four children a once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity. Patrick and her family traveled 160 miles to Indianapolis Motor Speedway from their home in Granger, Indiana. They were expected to have 97% totality at home, but it’s not the same as total coverage, she said.

“They will be getting the full experience that they can’t read about in textbooks,” Patrick said.

Patrick and her sister Cally Gannon, 39, from Cincinnati, met in Indianapolis to view the eclipse from the speedway. They camped outside IMS over the weekend ahead of the event and on Sunday afternoon saw a double rainbow over the speedway’s iconic pagoda. An estimated 50,000 tickets were sold for the day’s festivities, presented in partnership with NASA and Purdue University.

Elsewhere in the stands, Ryan Harper, 30, knows today is special.

“We’re right in totality,” he said. “This sometimes doesn’t happen in people’s lifetimes.

— Sarah Bowman and Jade Thomas

Family travels from Baltimore to Rochester, N.Y., to view the eclipse

When Maze Pelham of Baltimore was a fifth-grader, he watched news of the 2017 solar eclipse and vowed to witness the next notable solar eclipse. That eclipse, and that day, has come. And this is why he and his parents, Janice and Sonney Pelham, left Maryland around 1 a.m. on Monday and drove nearly seven hours to Rochester, New York.

“I said to myself I would go to the next one,” Maze Pelham said while seated with his parents on lawn chairs at downtown Rochester’s Parcel 5 park, where he and hundreds of others are awaiting a view of the full eclipse. “It’s a promise I made to myself.”

– Democrat and Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network

In Brooklyn: Eclipses glasses, check. Lawn chair, check.

Ralph Emerson held a pair of paper sunglasses in his hands while riding the subway to Brooklyn's sprawling Prospect Park on Monday. He exited the train with a folded lawn chair strapped across his shoulder, and said he felt energized and full of anticipation.

"This is special," Emerson, 61, said. "I haven't woken up with this much excitement since the Super Bowl."

Walking to the park's botanic garden, Emerson said appreciating natural phenomena makes it easier to manage the stresses that come with living in a big city. Also like a big sports game, the eclipse will draw lots of people together to experience something much larger than themselves, in community, he said.

"A lot of times it's tragedies that bring us together, but sometimes things like this do," he said.

− Claire Thornton

Texas Eclipse Festival cut short by weather

The Texas Eclipse Festival was canceled Monday in Burnet County, 50 miles northwest of Austin, because of weather concerns. The festival, which included bands and other events, began Sunday and was supposed to wrap up Tuesday.

"We regret to inform you of the severe weather forecast, including risks of high winds, tornadic activity, large hail, and thunderstorms for later today, including during the eclipse, Tuesday, and Wednesday," festival organizers said on their website. "Your safety is our top priority."

Festivalgoers were urged to leave early for safety and to beat traffic. Guests, however, were allowed to stay "provided they pack and are prepared to depart after totality."

Traffic jams, collisions mar eclipse watchers' travel

Traffic crashes and road delays were reported across the nation as Americans flocked to prime locations to gaze up at the rare solar eclipse . Local roads and highways in states including Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Vermont and New Hampshire were overwhelmed with eclipse chasers, many of whom were from out of state. The most intense bottlenecks appeared to be in the path of totality , where spectators will be able to view the full eclipse.

In Oklahoma, a crash around 7:30 a.m. local time narrowed eastbound lanes on I-40, a major transcontinental highway that runs from California to North Carolina. The crash occurred not far from several state parks that were hosting eclipse events, and it's also within driving distance of the full eclipse path, which includes parts of southeastern Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Multiple crashes were reported on an interstate in Waco, Texas, a city in the path of totality, where several festivities and eclipse viewing events were scheduled. The crashes all occurred on I-35, which runs from southern Texas to Minnesota.

"Expect major traffic delays in this area," the Texas Department of Transportation said in a statement .

− Christopher Cann

Airport draws a crowd of jets for eclipse

EAGLE PASS, Texas − Maverick County International Airport in Eagle Pass, Texas, usually sees maybe three private planes a day. By 10 a.m. CT on Monday, more than 10 planes crowded the tarmac, including Cessnas, Pipers and at least one corporate jet − all there to catch an early glimpse of the total solar eclipse. Eagle Pass will be one of the first American cities to witness the phenomenon. Some watchers, like Brandon Beck, 43, flew in Sunday night from San Diego and spent the night in a sleeping bag on the tarmac next to his friend’s Mooney single-prop piston four-seater.“We’re so lucky to be on a planet where the sun is the perfect size and perfect distance to create that effect,” he said. “It’s obligatory. We have to see it.”

First the Cherry Blossoms, then the eclipse

WASHINGTON − The Cherry Blossoms brought Ali and Aurore Youssouf to the city all the way from Paris, but the pair were delighted to learn that their trip would overlap with the eclipse. The day is extra special for Aurore Youssouf, 43, who has never seen an eclipse before. On Monday morning, the couple arrived by chance at the National Mall early enough to snag a few pairs of free eclipse glasses distributed by the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum for the occasion.“We didn’t even know. We just ended up here and found out that they were giving away some glasses,” said Ali Youssouf, 46.

Awaiting eclipse − and hail − in Texas

KERRVILLE, Texas − Forecasts called for considerable cloudiness, rain and possible hail, but retired NASA engineer Jeff Stone stayed positive as he and his wife prepared to host more than a dozen people for a watch party at their hilltop home in Texas Hill Country. Stone, an eclipse enthusiast who had met family in Missouri to watch the solar eclipse of 2017, said he recently reviewed video footage of that event and said current conditions weren’t that much different than they were back then.

“I’m outside and seeing patches of blue among scattered clouds, so we’re remaining hopeful,” he said.

About 150 miles to the northeast in Gatesville, lead pastor Eric Moffett of Coryell Community Church said a similar forecast did little to deter an expected gathering of about 800 visitors for the church’s family-oriented “Eclipse at the Crosses” event. Many, if not most, were from out of town or even out of country − Canada, Wales, France, Italy. Many locals were staying home to avoid the crowd, he said.

“It’s partly cloudy, but the sun is shining on me right now,” he said. “We are praying that it stays that way.”

− Marc Ramirez

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

A  total solar eclipse  occurs when the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching our planet, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the moon and the sun are on exact opposite sides of Earth. The Earth blocks the sunlight that normally reaches the moon. Instead of that sunlight hitting the moon’s surface, Earth's shadow falls on it.

A lunar eclipse can last for a few hours, while a solar eclipse lasts only a few minutes. Solar eclipses also rarely occur, while lunar eclipses are comparatively more frequent. While at least two partial lunar eclipses happen every year, total lunar eclipses are still rare, NASA says. Another major difference: No special glasses or gizmos are needed to view the a lunar eclipse, and people can directly stare at the moon.

− Saman Shafiq

Solar eclipse, lunar eclipse: What is the difference?

Can you drive during the solar eclipse?

The  2024 solar eclipse  will shroud much of the United States in darkness on Monday, leaving many people to wonder: Is it safe to drive during the solar eclipse?

It is safe to drive during an eclipse as long as you don't look up at the sky. AAA is telling drivers to be focused on the road if they are operating a car during the total solar eclipse. But the automobile insurance company is advising Americans who want to safely view the total eclipse to "find a safe place to park (not on the side of a road or highway) away from other traffic and then wear your eclipse glasses," said Aixa Diaz, a spokeswoman from AAA.

"Pack your patience, whether traveling a great distance or locally," Diaz said. "People will be out and about to catch a glimpse of the eclipse."

A similar scenario  played out in 2017 during the nation's last total solar eclipse : Congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

− Kayla Jimenez

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again. According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse. The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

But another eclipse scheduledfor Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

− Mary Walrath-Holdridge, Gabe Hauari and Eric Lagatta

Eclipse and pets: It's not the sky that's the problem

An  eclipse  itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets to  experience the April 2024 total solar eclipse . Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and  eager people gather , said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dogs especially will take their cues from their owners rather than  the celestial event.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” Carlson said.

− Elizabeth Weise

A guide to the solar eclipse for kids

Here's an easy-to read, illustrated guide to help kids understand what the  April 8 total solar eclipse  means, where it will be visible and how you can watch it safely. It also shows them how an ordinary kitchen colander can easily be used to view a solar eclipse − the colander's holes can project crescent images of the sun onto the ground. There are even pages that can be downloaded and colored.

Trump's eclipse experience lit up internet in 2017

Seven years ago, when the last  total solar eclipse  crossed over North America, a photo of then-President Donald Trump  seemingly gazing at the sun with his naked eyes set the internet ablaze . During the afternoon of Aug. 21, 2017, Trump, who was president at the time, was joined by then first lady Melania Trump and their son Barron  to watch the rare phenomenon from the Truman Balcony  at the White House. Photos taken by members of the media captured all three donning eclipse glasses while looking at the eclipse.

But at one point during the viewing, the former president was captured in photos and videos without proper eye protection, seemingly gazing directly at the sun. Looking at an eclipse before or after the brief phase of totality without proper eyewear  can lead to eye damage .

− Natalie Neysa Alund

When is the next total solar eclipse? What to know about the next eclipse's path, timing

How to make a solar eclipse viewer

People who didn't manage to get their  hands on glasses  are not completely down and out. There are other safe ways to view the eclipse , say experts, and a lot of them only require a little bit of craftiness and items you can find lying around the house.

Steps to make the cereal box eclipse viewer (And here is a video aid) :

• Get an empty, clean cereal box.
• Cut a white piece of cardboard that will fit snuggly in the bottom of the box, or secure it permanently by gluing it in place.
• Cut the top of the cereal box, removing both ends and leaving the center intact.
• Put a piece of tape across the center of the top to securely hold it closed.
• Tape a piece of heavy-duty foil or double a single layer for additional strength, covering one of the openings at the top of the cereal box. The other opening will remain open for viewing.
• Using a small nail (approximately 3mm in diameter) push a hole in the foil.
• Cover the entire box with construction paper, leaving the single-viewing opening and the foil uncovered.

The finished box should be held with the pin-hole side facing the sun. It may take a little practice pointing the box. With your back facing the sun, look through the viewing opening. A small image of the sun, about ½ cm in diameter, can be seen projected on the white paper inside the box.

− Mary Walrath-Holdrid

What is the path of the solar eclipse called?

Those in the direct line of the eclipse will be treated to an incredible sight as the moon completely blots out the sun's disk, ushering in uncharacteristic darkness and revealing the sun's elusive outermost layer called the corona. That moment is called "totality" and this year the path of totality crosses through 13 U.S. states.

The last total solar eclipse to cut through North America was in August 2017.

How to look at eclipse without glasses

A total solar eclipse offers skygazers the rare opportunity to witness the eclipse with the naked eye. However,  solar eclipse glasses  are still needed until totality is reached. 

Certified solar eclipse  glasses are crucial for spectators to avoid the sun's retina-damaging rays. But when the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light, you'll know it's  safe to remove the glasses  for a short period of time.

How fast does an eclipse shadow travel?

According to a post from the  National Weather Service  in Indianapolis on X, an eclipse shadow travels at speeds from 1,100 to 5,000 mph. Near the equator, it travels at around 1,100 mph and increases in speed as it approaches the poles.

The eclipse party is over? Time to recycle those glasses!

Astronomers Without Borders , or AWB, a non-profit organization running its second nationwide  eclipse glasses recycling drive . Her business will join over 300 schools, museums, city governments, commercial businesses, community organizations and local libraries that will collect and ship an estimated  millions of glasses  to be repurposed for use by underserved communities around the world in  future solar eclipses .

AWB launched its first run of the program after the last solar eclipse in 2017 when volunteer centers across the country collected millions of the glass. After vetting them for reuse, more than  half a million glasses were distributed to Africa, Asia and South America.

People can visit  AWB's website  to find their nearest participating collection center and learn more about recycling the glasses, said Andrew Fazekas, the organization's communication manager.  

"We figure there's probably going to be tens of millions of glasses out there at the very least," he said. "And most of them are probably very gently used."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Total solar eclipse 2024: Watch video and see photos of the sky spectacle