As promised in the May 2012 Sky & Telescope, page 50, here is detailed further information on observing the annular/partial eclipse of the Sun that will cross eastern Asia and parts of North America on May 20th (local date in North America) and 21st (in Asia).

Overview article about this eclipse on S&T's website.

More detailed world map of the partial and annular eclipse by Fred Espenak, NASA / GSFC.

Local times and circumstances of partial and annular eclipse for many locations in the U.S. (The times are Universal Time May 21st; these fall on May 20th in the time zones of North America.)

Local times and circumstances of annular and partial eclipse for some locations in Canada, Mexico and Asia. (The times are Universal Time May 20–21).

If your location isn't in these tables, NASA's javascript Solar Eclipse Explorer will calculate the local circumstances for any solar solar eclipse visible from any location between 1500 BC and 3000 AD.

Map of cloudiness prospects and other weather information, as well as very detailed maps of the path of annularity across the world.

Overview of the ways to watch a partial solar eclipse safely.

More than 30 U.S. national parks lie in or near the path of annularity, and many public viewing events are planned.

Michael Zeiler writes: "If you have an iPhone, go to the iPhone app store and search for 'annular solar eclipse 2012'. It's by Yoshikazu Kuramochi of Japan and is free. Most of this app is simple and sturdy, but a noteworthy feature is the augmented-reality display. Point your iPhone to the western sky and you will see the sky path of eclipse and contacts overlaid on a live image through your iPhone app. Fascinating and recommended."

Lots more solar eclipse links, including photography, video, eclipses for beginners, and more on how to observe the Sun safely.

Make your plans to enjoy this event!

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