AUSTN, Texas — An annular solar eclipse will be in Texas’ line of sight on Saturday, Oct. 14. That gives Texans a month to secure their spot at one of the many state parks for an optimal viewing experience. Texas State Parks says visitors should reserve a day pass as they might end up going over capacity.

“The eclipse will then travel southeastward across the state. The duration of totality will vary depending on your vantage point, ranging from a few seconds to five minutes. The closer you are to the eclipse’s path, the longer you will be able to enjoy the ring of fire.”

The eclipse will pass over Midland/Odessa to Corpus Christi, and visitors have 17 state parks to choose from to see it.

According to Texas State Parks, “An eclipse occurs when the sun, moon and Earth align in space. During an annular eclipse, the moon appears slightly smaller than the sun, covering only a portion of it. This creates the illusion of a ring of fire in the sky.”

On Oct. 14, the moon will merge over to the sun’s position around 10:20 a.m., and viewers will then be able to see a “ring of fire” around 11:40 a.m. along the Texas-New Mexico border. Texas State Parks explains that the eclipse will move southeastward across the state.

The duration of the event varies from a few seconds to five minutes. It depends on where you’re viewing the eclipse. Closer proximity means longer view time.

Given the expectancy of a large turnout, entry into the parks will be limited to people who’ve pre-purchased day passes or camping permits. However, it’s not guaranteed that a state park pass will allow you to enter. Texas State Parks advise you reserve your campsite or day pass here.

If you can’t make it to a park, you can view the eclipse online.

State Parks with eclipse viewing:

For a better viewing experience, Texas State Park recommended the following:

  • Make safety a priority. You must use eye protection to view any part of the annular eclipse. You can pre-purchase eclipse glasses or use an indirect observation method like a pinhole viewer. Please note that eclipse glasses will be available for purchase at many parks, but quantities are limited.
  • Come early and stay late. Expect traffic delays as parks anticipate visitors from across the state and nation.
  • Pack more than a snack. Plan to bring enough food, water and fuel in case of delays.
  • Park in designated areas only. Stay off roadways for your safety. Do not park off pavement unless directed by park staff.
  • Attend a park program. Many parks will offer ranger-led programs before or after the eclipse.