What is a total solar eclipse?

As the countdown continues towards a total solar eclipse, officials are projecting grid-locked roads, sold out hotels as millions travel to get a good view. NBC News’ Zinhle Essamuah explains what a total solar eclipse is and why people are traveling to see it.

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[AaronCross]

must've been a lot of blind people when this would happen thousands of years ago

[PoorPapa]

For those who missed it, there will be a second showing of the eclipse tomorrow, same time!😊

[brandonohara]

So in the year 2045 If I am. still alive, that would make me 55 years old and that thing is going right over my house in south florida😂

[jo]

I saw a total eclipse in South Carolina, few years ago, it was a surreal experience. Should experience it if you can.

[memphispiper]

Reminds of that movie _Apocalypto_
Amigo in that movie had enemies from all sides it was crazy. Just like how I see it today. Happy Eclipse Day everybody!

[SUGAR_XYLER]

It looks like your in the middle of a wonderful fantasy. So glad I've seen it and I did feel connected to the universe ✨

[richardpack]

🎉 thank you for making this video and then and I need to know who it is 🎉🎉🎉💖💕❤️💘

[cisium]

Fun fact: the word _eclipse_ was coined in 1952. It is named after Don Eclipse, Einstein's bowling partner.

[Johnnyrocks]

Its 5 am the next day and im stil hysterical crying! This was just greatest most amazing thing in human history. We ll never top it

[monicawatson]

My fiance and i had planned to go to Niagara to watch it and now i am so glad we didnt. Its cloudy and crowded

[debbiebrannen]

We are sorry to report the eclipse has been postponed the money ran out

[mouse]

Stare at with binoculars like a real man

[Alisonsgachaverse]

while I'm inside there's a bit of sunlight that shines through my curtains and and I have no way to block it out so I'm now I'm extremely anxious that I'm gonna go blind

[DjAmerillion]

Here in south east Oklahoma almost and I'm already taking pics with my S21 Ultra while using my eclipse glasses over the lens to filter my camera and they are AWESOME!!!!

[brianellis]

Wish they would’ve scheduled this on a weekend when most are off school and work

[fady-ysbs]

In north American it was so cloudy today. I didn't get to see the eclipse because the clouds.

[baroneleve]

When is this today? I don't want to miss it.

[jesusrnieves]

The flat earthers predicted it, with sophisticated equipment they created themselves 😂😂😂

[Samgo]

People after the eclipse who were in totality (I live in Dallas)
👇🏻

[ItzSeannyy]

Just hypothetically speaking since we can’t foresee the future but by the current standards I was in today, technically I’m out for another loss again by living in the wrong location 😂