Don’t panic if it starts to get darker than usual around 6 p.m. today, it’s just a partial solar eclipse.

A partial solar eclipse happens, according to the website timeanddate.com, when the moon gets between the sun and Earth and covers up some of the sun.

What you need to know:

1. Read this before you look up: Do not, repeat, do not stare directly into the eclipse, no matter how tempted you may be. Wear protective gear. Not doing so, could damage your eyes.

2. When to watch: The best time to watch in Atlanta is between 6:01 p.m. and 6:53 p.m.

3. What you'll see: It will look as though a giant black bite has been taken out of the sun.

4. To build a projector: Watch this video and find out how to make a pinhole projector.

5. Want more? Missed it?: The next visible eclipse for Atlanta will be a partial lunar eclipse on April 4, 2015.

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com