John,

T-minus three days until the total solar eclipse comes to New York on April 8! The path of totality runs across upstate New York, and the entire state is going to have the opportunity to see a partial eclipse.

As we prepare for this out-of-this-world event, who better to talk to than an astronaut who is going to experience the event from space!?

This week, I had the pleasure of talking to Syracuse’s own Dr. Jeanette Epps live from the International Space Station — who is going to be one of the few people to ever witness a total solar eclipse from space.

>> Watch my full conversation with Dr. Epps here >> 

The total eclipse will begin in Western New York shortly after 2:00 pm, but start times will vary across the state. Click here to find the exact timing for your area.

>> Hear from SUNY Geneseo student and NASA Eclipse Ambassador Auralia to learn more about what happens during an eclipse >>

If you’re traveling to view the total solar eclipse, there are certain steps you can take to get the most out of your experience:

✅ Arrive early and stay late so you can enjoy all our state has to offer

✅ Plan for extra travel time

✅ Pack plenty of water and supplies

✅ Find a safe viewing location

✅ Get ISO-certified glasses and make sure to wear them while viewing the eclipse

✅ Wear red and green for the best viewing experience (Click here to learn why.)

>> Listen to Director of State Operations Kathryn Garcia give some tips on how to prepare >>

This is a once-in-a-generation experience, and I can't wait for New Yorkers and millions of expected visitors to come together to safely enjoy this cosmic event! 

Ever Upward,

Gov. Kathy Hochul