Millions of Americans will look skyward on Wednesday, Aug. 12 as a partial solar eclipse crosses more than half the country. But before you step outside, experts have a warning: Looking at the sun without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage.

The eclipse will be visible in 26 states and Washington, D.C., while parts of six countries will experience totality, when the moon completely blocks the sun. For U.S. viewers, the event is also a reminder to use certified eclipse glasses or other safe viewing methods, according to NASA and astronomy experts.

Here’s how to safely watch the celestial event.

How to safely watch

The most straightforward way to view the eclipse is with a pair of solar eclipse glasses.

Solar eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers can be purchased, but should comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard, according to NASA. The space agency does not certify the safety of solar eclipse glasses, USA TODAY previously reported.

The responsibility of guiding U.S. consumers to the safest eclipse glasses is largely left to the American Astronomical Society. The organization maintains a list of approved vendors that sell solar eclipse glasses.

Those who cannot procure a pair of solar eclipse glasses can construct a pin projector from common household objects. NASA provides instructions on its website.

Where will the eclipse be visible?

Here is a look at where the eclipse will be visible and how much of it will be seen.

What time is the solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 12, beginning at around 11:34 a.m. ET, according to Time and Date. The maximum eclipse will occur at 1:46 p.m. ET. 

Where will the partial solar eclipse be visible in the US?

The following states, along with Washington, DC, will be able to see the partial solar eclipse on Aug. 12, according to USA TODAY reporting and National Eclipse, an organization that provides information on upcoming eclipses:

• Alaska
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Iowa
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Montana
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Dakota
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington, DC
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin