No matter where in the country you live, if you happened to look outside on Monday, chances are you were in for a treat. Photos of the 2017 solar eclipse flooded Twitter from almost the first second the moon's shadow started its journey across the sun on Aug. 21, and it's official — this might be my favorite natural phenomenon of all time. Space is so weird, you guys.
Although the solar eclipse was most visible for people living within 70 miles of the path of totality, most of the continental U.S. caught at least partial views of the rare sky show as the sun and the moon did its thing. And, even if you didn't get to see the eclipse reach totality, you probably still experienced all of the other low-key creepy things that happened as the sun seemingly disappeared from the sky.
This year's eclipse is considered especially unique, because it's the first time in almost a century that the path of totality stretches all the way across the United States, starting in the northwest part of the country and journeying southeast toward South Carolina. If you happened to miss it, you're not totally out of luck — another total eclipse will be visible from the United States in 2024. But, if you're looking to catch up on this year's action — or you just want to relive the glory of the 2017 event — here are the best photos of the solar eclipse to help you remember that we are but small, insignificant beings living in a cool AF universe.
Oregon
People in cities like Salem and Madras were among the first to see the solar eclipse as the moon's shadow started its trip across the sun.
Oregon experienced totality at around 1:15 p.m. EST.
West Coast
The eclipse became visible starting on the west coast, before making its move toward the southeast.
Arizona
Although Phoenix didn't fall under the path of totality, it still had a pretty freaking amazing view.
San Francisco
This is what the eclipse looked like slightly obscured by clouds in San Francisco.
Washington
No matter where you are, verified solar eclipse glasses are crucial for protecting your eyes.
From The Trees
Tree leaves form a makeshift pinhole camera — and this is what it looks like.
Nature is cool, y'all.
From A Plane
Honestly if you were flying today, you might have had the best seat in the house.
Cloudy Skies
Even with clouds, the eclipse was still a spectacular display.
The clouds actually lend a cool spooky effect, if you're into that kind of thing.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville was close to the path of totality, and this is what it looked like outside. In the middle of the afternoon.
Ah, nature. You really are the best.
