Eclipse 2024 pictures: An eerie darkness descends
- Published
Thousands of people witnessed a celestial spectacle that plunged parts of North America into momentary darkness.

Mazatlan in Mexico was the first to experience totality

The Moon perfectly blocked the Sun

Children paused their beach play to watch in Mexico

People used special protective glasses to observe the event

Tens of millions watched as day turned to night

Thousands gathered early in preparation for the event

Clouds rolled by as the beginning phase became visible from Arlington, Texas

The clouds parted for some clearer views

Observers in Oklahoma were also plunged into darkness

People gathered in wonder in the US state of Indiana

This year's path of totality was 115 miles (185 kilometres) wide and home to nearly 32 million Americans

Couples wed at the Total Eclipse of the Heart festival in Russellville, Arkansas

While New York City wasn't in the path of totality, people could see up to 90% of the sun covered by the moon

A heavy cloud cover was over Niagara Falls as the sky got darker

For a brief moment the cloud cover dispersed and the sun appeared as a crescent in the sky over Niagara
More on the solar eclipse
EYEWITNESS: 'It's a thrilling moment'
EXPLAINER: What is a solar eclipse and why is this one rare?
FANATICS: Eclipse chasers flock to N America
All photos subject to copyright. Gallery compiled by Emma Lynch