Solar eclipse photos: See pictures of celestial event from around US

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, plunging millions in parts of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada into darkness for up to four minutes and 27 seconds.

A total solar eclipse is a rare celestial event that occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA.