A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun, completely blocking out the sun's light and casting a shadow on the Earth. During totality, the sky darkens dramatically, and observers within the path of totality can see the sun's corona, the outer atmosphere of the sun, glowing around the dark silhouette of the moon.

Our solar system is located in one of the Milky Way's spiral arms, known as the Orion Arm or Local Spur. We're situated about two-thirds of the way from the center of the galaxy to the outer edge, in a relatively calm and stable region.

Studying the Milky Way provides valuable insights into the structure, dynamics, and evolution of galaxies in general, as well as our own cosmic neighborhood. Astronomers use various techniques, such as observing in different wavelengths of light and studying the motions of stars and gas, to learn more about the Milky Way's composition, history, and future.