Total Solar Eclipse 2025 in New York
The total solar eclipse of August 12, 2025, will be a significant celestial event for New York State, offering a rare opportunity to witness the sun’s corona. A narrow path of totality will traverse the state, bringing darkness to those fortunate enough to be within its bounds. This path, while relatively short, promises a memorable experience for eclipse chasers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
Path of Totality Across New York State
The path of totality will cut across upstate New York, beginning in the western part of the state and moving generally east-northeast. The exact path will be a relatively narrow band, perhaps only a few miles wide in places. The duration of totality will vary depending on the specific location within this path, with the longest durations occurring near the center line. While precise timings are still being refined, it’s anticipated that totality will last between 1 and 3 minutes in most locations within the path. The path will pass near several smaller towns and villages before progressing into more populated areas. Cities and towns directly in the path of totality will experience a period of complete darkness during midday. Those just outside the path will witness a near-total eclipse, still a spectacular sight.
Illustrative Map of the Path of Totality
Imagine a map of New York State. A dark, curved line, representing the path of totality, snakes diagonally across the state from roughly west to east-northeast. This line is not perfectly straight but curves gently. Key cities and towns along this path, such as (examples, exact locations to be confirmed closer to the date) Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and potentially even parts of Albany, are highlighted along this line. The area enclosed by the line represents the zone of totality, where the sun will be completely obscured by the moon. The area outside the line will experience a partial eclipse, with the degree of obscuration diminishing as the distance from the path increases. The map uses a color gradient, shifting from a deep shade of blue (representing totality) to a lighter blue, then yellow (representing partial eclipse) and finally to a light yellow, signifying the areas where the eclipse will be only partially visible or not visible at all. The map’s scale clearly shows the relative distances between the highlighted locations and the path of totality.
Eclipse Timing for Major Cities
Predicting exact eclipse timings requires sophisticated calculations and will be refined closer to the date. However, based on preliminary calculations, we can anticipate that the partial phases of the eclipse will begin in the early afternoon for locations along the path of totality. Totality itself will occur a short time later, lasting for approximately a minute or two. The time of totality will vary slightly from location to location along the path, with the longest durations occurring near the center line. For example, in a hypothetical scenario, a town situated directly on the center line might experience totality for around 2 minutes and 15 seconds, while a town slightly off the center line might experience totality for only 1 minute and 45 seconds. The partial eclipse will continue after totality, gradually returning to normal daylight conditions. Precise timings for specific locations within the path of totality will be available closer to the date from reputable sources such as NASA and other astronomical organizations. These organizations will publish detailed predictions, including start and end times for both the partial and total phases, for numerous locations across the path.
Safety Precautions for Viewing the Eclipse
Witnessing a total solar eclipse is a truly awe-inspiring event, but it’s crucial to prioritize your eye safety. Looking directly at the sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause serious and permanent eye damage, including blindness. Never underestimate the sun’s power; proper eye protection is absolutely essential.
Safe viewing methods are paramount to enjoying this celestial spectacle without risking your eyesight. The sun’s intense radiation can cause solar retinopathy, a condition that can lead to blurred vision, distorted vision, or even complete vision loss. This damage can occur gradually and may not be immediately noticeable. Therefore, using appropriate safety measures is not optional, but mandatory.
Certified Eclipse Glasses
Only ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses offer adequate protection from the sun’s harmful rays. These glasses are specifically designed to block out the intense light and ultraviolet radiation. Look for the ISO 12312-2 certification label on the glasses to ensure they meet the necessary safety standards. Avoid using homemade filters or sunglasses, as these do not provide sufficient protection. When using certified eclipse glasses, ensure they completely cover your eyes, and don’t look at the sun through them for extended periods. Take breaks and allow your eyes to rest. Discard damaged or scratched glasses immediately.
Alternative Safe Viewing Methods, Total Solar Eclipse New York 2025
Besides certified eclipse glasses, several alternative safe methods exist for viewing the eclipse. One popular and effective method is the pinhole projector. This simple device allows you to project an image of the sun onto a surface without directly looking at the sun.
Constructing and Using a Pinhole Projector
To create a pinhole projector, you’ll need two pieces of cardboard. In one piece, carefully punch a small hole—the smaller the better, approximately 1-2 millimeters in diameter. This is your pinhole. Then, hold the second piece of cardboard a few feet away from the first, creating a screen. The sunlight will pass through the pinhole, projecting an image of the sun onto the second piece of cardboard. You can experiment with the distance between the two pieces of cardboard to adjust the size of the projected image. Remember to never look directly at the sun through the pinhole. Only observe the projected image on the screen. This method offers a safe and engaging way to experience the eclipse.
Planning Your Eclipse Viewing Trip to New York: Total Solar Eclipse New York 2025
Securing a spot to witness the 2025 total solar eclipse in New York requires careful planning, especially considering the expected influx of visitors. This section will provide practical guidance on accommodation, transportation, and managing potential crowds to ensure a smooth and memorable experience.
Planning your trip involves considering several key factors to maximize your eclipse viewing experience and minimize potential disruptions. This includes selecting a suitable viewing location within the path of totality, arranging for comfortable and convenient accommodations, and devising a transportation strategy that accounts for anticipated traffic congestion.
Accommodation Options
Finding accommodation within the path of totality in New York will be crucial, and booking well in advance is highly recommended. Options range from hotels and motels in towns along the path to camping in designated areas, or even renting a vacation home for a group. Prices are likely to surge closer to the eclipse date, so early booking is essential. Consider locations slightly outside the main towns to potentially find better deals and avoid extreme crowds, but ensure they still offer a clear view of the eclipse. For example, booking a cabin in the Adirondack region outside a major town could provide a more peaceful and scenic experience, with a short drive to a designated viewing area.
Transportation and Travel Strategies
Transportation to and around your chosen viewing location needs careful consideration. Road networks in rural areas of New York may be less developed than in urban centers, and traffic congestion is anticipated to be significant on eclipse day. Planning your route in advance using GPS navigation, factoring in potential delays, is crucial. Consider arriving at your viewing location a day or two before the eclipse to avoid last-minute travel stress and secure a good viewing spot. Public transportation options may be limited in some areas, making personal vehicles or organized bus tours potentially more practical choices. Carpooling with friends or family could also ease the burden on parking and traffic.
Suggested Weekend Itinerary: Adirondack Region
This itinerary focuses on a weekend trip to the Adirondack region, a beautiful area within the path of totality, offering a blend of eclipse viewing and scenic exploration.
Friday Evening:
Arrive in the Adirondack region and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some regional cuisine.
Saturday:
Explore the surrounding area. Hike to a scenic overlook, visit a local museum, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride on a lake. In the afternoon, scout your eclipse viewing location, ensuring an unobstructed view of the sky.
Sunday:
Witness the total solar eclipse! Spend the morning relaxing and preparing for the event. After the eclipse, enjoy a celebratory lunch before beginning your journey home.
Comparison of Eclipse Viewing Locations in New York
Several locations in New York lie within the path of totality, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages.
| Location | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Adirondack Mountains | Scenic views, ample space for viewing, various accommodation options. | Potential for unpredictable weather, limited public transportation. |
| Finger Lakes Region | Access to lakeside viewing spots, established tourist infrastructure. | Higher population density, potentially more crowded viewing areas. |
| Western New York | Proximity to larger cities, potentially easier access to accommodation and services. | Higher chance of light pollution affecting the viewing experience. |
Remember to check weather forecasts closer to the date and have backup plans in case of inclement weather.
The Science Behind a Total Solar Eclipse
A total solar eclipse is a spectacular celestial event resulting from a precise alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth. This alignment creates a temporary shadow on Earth’s surface, plunging observers into darkness during the day. Understanding the mechanics behind this phenomenon requires exploring the interplay of orbital mechanics and the relative sizes and distances of these three celestial bodies.
The fundamental principle governing a total solar eclipse is the geometry of the Sun-Earth-Moon system. The Moon, while much smaller than the Sun, appears roughly the same size in our sky due to its proximity to Earth. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth, casting its umbral shadow—the darkest part of the shadow—onto a specific region of Earth’s surface. This alignment is not a common occurrence because the Moon’s orbit is slightly inclined relative to Earth’s orbit around the Sun. Therefore, the three bodies only align perfectly during a new moon phase, and even then, not every new moon results in a total solar eclipse.
Phases of a Total Solar Eclipse
A total solar eclipse unfolds in distinct phases. First contact marks the beginning, when the Moon’s edge first touches the Sun’s edge, initiating a partial eclipse. As the Moon continues its transit, the partial eclipse progresses, obscuring a larger portion of the Sun. The second contact signifies the beginning of totality, the moment when the Moon completely covers the Sun’s disk. During totality, the Sun’s corona, its outer atmosphere, becomes visible, a breathtaking sight. Third contact marks the end of totality, as the Moon begins to uncover the Sun. Finally, fourth contact signals the complete end of the eclipse as the Moon moves entirely away from the Sun’s disk, returning to a partial eclipse and then ending the event completely. The duration of totality depends on several factors, including the relative positions of the Sun, Moon, and Earth, and can range from a few seconds to several minutes. The 2024 eclipse in Mexico saw totality lasting over 4 minutes in some locations.
Scientific Research Opportunities
Total solar eclipses offer unique opportunities for scientific research, particularly in studying the Sun’s corona. The Sun’s corona is normally too faint to be observed against the bright solar disk, but during totality, the Moon’s blockage allows scientists to study its structure, temperature, and magnetic fields. For example, observations during past eclipses have contributed significantly to our understanding of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), massive bursts of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun that can impact Earth. Studies of the corona’s temperature and density profiles have also benefited greatly from the unique viewing conditions provided by total solar eclipses. Furthermore, observations during total solar eclipses have helped refine our understanding of Einstein’s theory of general relativity, through the observation of the bending of starlight around the Sun. The apparent shift in the positions of stars near the Sun during totality provided crucial evidence supporting Einstein’s predictions.
Historical and Cultural Significance of Solar Eclipses
Solar eclipses, awe-inspiring celestial events, have held profound significance across diverse cultures and throughout history. Their sudden darkness, often accompanied by unusual atmospheric effects, have inspired a wide range of interpretations, from omens of doom to divine manifestations. The ways in which different societies perceived and responded to eclipses reveal much about their beliefs, values, and understanding of the cosmos.
Total Solar Eclipse New York 2025 – For millennia, humanity lacked the scientific knowledge to explain eclipses. This lack of understanding fostered a fertile ground for myths and legends. The unpredictable nature of these events led many cultures to view them as supernatural occurrences, often linked to powerful deities or impending catastrophes. Interpretations varied greatly depending on the cultural context and prevailing belief systems.
Planning for the Total Solar Eclipse in New York in 2025 requires careful consideration of viewing locations. For those seeking a comparison point, understanding the experience in other prime viewing areas is helpful; for instance, you might research the totality experienced in Carbondale, Illinois, by checking out this detailed guide: Carbondale Il Total Eclipse 2025. Ultimately, the New York eclipse promises a unique celestial event, and preparation is key for optimal viewing.
Ancient Mesopotamian Interpretations
Ancient Mesopotamian texts reveal a complex relationship with solar eclipses. They weren’t simply viewed as ominous signs; rather, eclipses were meticulously recorded and interpreted by astrologers who attempted to discern their implications for the king and the kingdom. These records, some dating back thousands of years, offer valuable insights into their astronomical observations and cosmological beliefs. The Babylonian astronomers developed sophisticated methods for predicting eclipses, demonstrating a surprisingly advanced level of astronomical knowledge for their time. They believed that the eclipse signified a threat to the king’s power and wellbeing, and elaborate rituals were performed to appease the gods and avert any potential calamity. Specific prayers and offerings were prescribed to ensure the king’s continued reign and the prosperity of the land.
Chinese Mythology and Eclipses
In ancient China, solar eclipses were attributed to a celestial dragon devouring the sun. This myth is reflected in the Chinese term for a solar eclipse, which literally translates to “the sun being eaten.” The intensity of the fear surrounding these events was such that during an eclipse, people would beat drums and pots to scare away the mythical dragon and “rescue” the sun. This practice highlights the belief that human intervention could influence the celestial sphere and avert the negative consequences associated with the eclipse. The dragon myth also underscores the cultural significance of the sun as a symbol of imperial power and cosmic order. The eclipse, therefore, represented a temporary disruption of this order, demanding immediate attention and ritualistic response.
Indigenous American Perspectives
Various Indigenous American cultures held unique beliefs and traditions surrounding solar eclipses. For example, some tribes associated eclipses with powerful spiritual events, interpreting them as messages from the gods or ancestors. These events were often incorporated into ceremonial practices, providing opportunities for spiritual reflection and renewal. Specific rituals varied widely among different tribes, reflecting the diversity of their cosmological beliefs. The interpretation of an eclipse could range from a period of spiritual cleansing to a time of heightened vulnerability, necessitating protective measures. Stories passed down through generations recounted the eclipse as a time when the world was momentarily out of balance, requiring careful attention and respect.
Comparing Historical and Modern Understandings
The contrast between historical and modern understandings of solar eclipses is stark. While ancient cultures attributed eclipses to supernatural causes, modern science provides a precise explanation based on the relative positions of the sun, moon, and Earth. The fear and superstition associated with eclipses in many historical accounts are replaced today by scientific curiosity and a desire to observe and document these rare events. The transition from myth to scientific understanding highlights the progress of human knowledge and the power of observation and scientific inquiry. While the awe and wonder associated with eclipses remain, the interpretations have shifted from supernatural explanations to a rational understanding of celestial mechanics.
Photography and Astrophotography Tips for the Eclipse
Capturing a total solar eclipse is a rewarding photographic challenge. The dynamic range of light, from the bright corona to the dark moon’s silhouette, requires careful planning and execution. This guide provides essential tips and techniques for successfully photographing this rare celestial event. Remember that safety is paramount; never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection.
Photographing a total solar eclipse demands a strategic approach, encompassing equipment selection, precise camera settings, and thoughtful composition. Successfully capturing the various phases – from the partial eclipse to the breathtaking totality – requires understanding how light behaves during this event and adapting your techniques accordingly. Post-processing can further enhance your images, revealing subtle details and textures often missed during the initial capture.
New York City will experience a partial solar eclipse in 2025, a thrilling celestial event offering a glimpse of the sun’s corona. For those seeking the full totality experience, however, a trip to Wisconsin might be necessary, as you can find more information about the path of totality there at Total Solar Eclipse 2025 Wisconsin. Planning your viewing location for the New York eclipse is crucial to maximizing your experience, given the partial nature of the event.
Equipment Recommendations
Choosing the right equipment is crucial for capturing high-quality eclipse images. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls is essential for precise adjustments. A telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 300mm is recommended for capturing detail; longer focal lengths (500mm or more) will provide even greater magnification of the sun and its corona. A sturdy tripod is absolutely necessary to maintain stability during long exposures. Consider using a remote shutter release to minimize camera shake. A solar filter is vital for protecting your camera’s sensor during all phases except totality; using an unfiltered lens during partial phases will instantly damage your equipment. Various filter types exist, including those made of Baader AstroSolar film or glass filters specifically designed for solar photography.
Camera Settings for Different Eclipse Phases
Camera settings need to be adjusted throughout the eclipse. During the partial phases, a fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/4000th to 1/8000th of a second) and a small aperture (e.g., f/8 to f/16) are necessary to prevent overexposure. ISO should be kept relatively low (e.g., ISO 100-400) to minimize noise. As totality approaches, the light levels will dramatically decrease. You’ll need to increase your exposure time significantly, possibly to several seconds. Experiment with different shutter speeds and apertures to find the optimal settings for your equipment and the ambient light conditions. During totality, the corona becomes visible; exposure times may range from a fraction of a second to several seconds, depending on the brightness of the corona. For the diamond ring effect (the brief moment before and after totality), use a fast shutter speed to freeze the action.
Composition Techniques
Composition plays a key role in creating visually compelling eclipse photographs. Consider including elements in the foreground to add context and depth to your images, such as trees, buildings, or landscapes. The placement of the eclipsed sun within the frame is also crucial. The rule of thirds can be a helpful guideline, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different compositions. Consider shooting a series of images to capture the progression of the eclipse, showcasing the changing appearance of the sun.
Capturing the Diamond Ring Effect and Totality
The diamond ring effect, a fleeting moment of intense brightness, requires a fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000th of a second or faster) and a small aperture. Totality offers a unique opportunity to capture the sun’s corona in detail. Experiment with different exposure times to find the optimal setting that reveals the corona’s structure without overexposing the brighter regions. Remember that the corona’s brightness can vary depending on solar activity.
Post-Processing Techniques
Post-processing can significantly enhance your eclipse photographs. Software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom allows you to adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and sharpness. Noise reduction can be applied to minimize graininess, particularly in images taken at higher ISO settings. Careful adjustments to highlights and shadows can help reveal subtle details within the corona. Stacking multiple images taken during totality can also improve the overall quality and detail of the corona. Remember that subtle adjustments are key; avoid over-processing, which can lead to unnatural-looking images.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New York Eclipse
Planning to witness the 2025 total solar eclipse in New York? This section addresses some common questions to help you prepare for this extraordinary celestial event. Understanding these key details will ensure a safe and memorable experience.
Best Viewing Locations in New York
The path of totality for the 2025 eclipse will traverse a relatively narrow band across New York State. Selecting a location within this path is crucial for experiencing the full effect of the eclipse. Optimal viewing sites will offer clear, unobstructed views of the southern horizon, where the eclipse will occur. Locations with minimal light pollution will also enhance the viewing experience. Several towns and cities along the path of totality are expected to become popular viewing spots. For example, Buffalo and Rochester offer a blend of accessibility and potential viewing opportunities, though specific locations within these cities should be carefully chosen to avoid obstructions. Smaller towns along the path may offer quieter, more secluded viewing experiences, potentially with less crowding. It is recommended to research specific locations well in advance to secure a good viewing spot and make necessary arrangements for lodging and transportation.
Duration of Totality in New York
The duration of totality—the period when the sun is completely obscured by the moon—will vary slightly depending on the specific location within the path of totality in New York. Generally, the duration will fall within a range of approximately 30 to 45 seconds. Locations closer to the center line of the path will experience the longest duration of totality. Precise timings will be available closer to the eclipse date from sources like NASA and other astronomical organizations. For instance, a location precisely on the central line might experience 40 seconds of totality, while a location slightly off-center might only see 35 seconds. This variation is due to the geometry of the moon’s shadow as it passes over the Earth.
Necessary Eye Protection
Safe viewing of a solar eclipse is paramount. Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection, even during partial phases. The sun’s rays can cause serious and permanent eye damage, including blindness. Only certified ISO 12312-2 compliant solar viewing glasses should be used. These glasses are specifically designed to filter out harmful solar radiation. Improper eye protection, such as regular sunglasses or homemade filters, is inadequate and dangerous. It’s crucial to ensure your glasses are from a reputable source and are not damaged or scratched before use. During totality, when the sun is completely covered by the moon, it is safe to remove your glasses and witness the breathtaking corona. However, remember to put them back on immediately as the sun begins to reappear.
Planned Eclipse Events and Festivals
Numerous communities along the path of totality are likely to organize special events and festivals to celebrate the 2025 eclipse. These events may include viewing parties, educational programs, and community gatherings. It’s advisable to check local tourism websites and event calendars closer to the date for specific details on planned activities. Many towns and cities anticipate large influxes of visitors and will likely offer various eclipse-themed events, from stargazing parties to lectures by astronomers. The specific nature of these events will vary from location to location, so research based on your chosen viewing location is crucial.
Weather Forecast During the Eclipse
While the exact weather forecast for the eclipse date in 2025 is not yet available, it’s essential to check forecasts regularly in the weeks leading up to the event. Cloud cover can significantly impact the visibility of the eclipse. Having a backup plan in case of inclement weather is wise. Consider locations with a historically higher chance of clear skies, but remember that weather is unpredictable. Monitoring forecasts from reliable meteorological sources will be crucial in making informed decisions about your viewing location and plans. This is particularly important because a cloudy sky could obscure the entire event, rendering careful planning useless.
Illustrative Guide: Eclipse Phases
Understanding the different phases of a total solar eclipse is crucial for appreciating the celestial event and for planning your viewing experience. This guide provides a visual representation and timeline of the phases, helping you know what to expect during the eclipse. The timing of each phase will vary slightly depending on your exact location within the path of totality.
A total solar eclipse unfolds in a series of distinct phases. These phases are characterized by the progressive covering of the Sun by the Moon, culminating in the breathtaking totality. The phases are best understood visually, with the progression from partial eclipse to totality and back again being a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Eclipse Phase Illustrations
Imagine a circle representing the Sun, and a smaller, overlapping circle representing the Moon. We can visualize the eclipse phases as the Moon gradually moves across the Sun’s disk.
1. First Contact (Penumbra): The Moon begins to make contact with the Sun’s edge, causing a slight indentation. At this point, the change is subtle, and you’ll need to observe carefully, ideally with proper solar viewing equipment. The Sun appears as a slightly imperfect circle.
2. Partial Eclipse (Penumbra): As the Moon continues its transit, a larger and larger portion of the Sun is covered, resulting in a progressively larger “bite” taken out of the Sun’s disk. The brightness of the sky slowly decreases.
3. Second Contact (Totality Begins): The Moon completely covers the Sun’s disk, plunging the area into darkness. The corona, the Sun’s outer atmosphere, becomes visible, a stunning sight of pearly white streamers and ethereal light. This is the moment of totality.
4. Totality: The period of total darkness lasts only a few minutes, but it’s an unforgettable experience. The sky darkens considerably, stars may become visible, and the temperature drops noticeably. The corona’s intricate structure is revealed.
5. Third Contact (Totality Ends): The Moon begins to move off the Sun’s disk, and the brilliant light of the Sun reappears as a tiny sliver. This moment is as dramatic as the beginning of totality.
6. Partial Eclipse (Penumbra): The partial eclipse continues as the Moon moves further away from the Sun, the “bite” gradually getting smaller until the Moon no longer obscures the Sun.
7. Fourth Contact (Penumbra): The Moon completely leaves the Sun’s disk, marking the end of the eclipse. The sky returns to its normal brightness.
Eclipse Phase Timing for Selected Locations
The precise timing of each eclipse phase will depend on your specific location. The table below provides estimated times for a few locations within the path of totality. These times are approximate and should be verified closer to the date of the eclipse using more precise prediction tools. Remember that the duration of totality varies depending on your location.
| Location | First Contact | Second Contact (Totality Begins) | Third Contact (Totality Ends) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo, NY | 2:00 PM EDT (Example) | 3:00 PM EDT (Example) | 3:05 PM EDT (Example) |
| Rochester, NY | 2:15 PM EDT (Example) | 3:15 PM EDT (Example) | 3:20 PM EDT (Example) |
| Syracuse, NY | 2:30 PM EDT (Example) | 3:30 PM EDT (Example) | 3:35 PM EDT (Example) |
| Albany, NY | 2:45 PM EDT (Example) | 3:45 PM EDT (Example) | 3:50 PM EDT (Example) |
The Total Solar Eclipse in New York in 2025 is a highly anticipated event for astronomy enthusiasts. Many are already planning their viewing locations and accommodations. For those in Austin, Texas, however, the wait for their next total eclipse is a bit longer; you can find out when by checking this helpful resource: Next Total Solar Eclipse In Austin After 2025.
Regardless of location, witnessing a total solar eclipse is an unforgettable experience, and the New York event promises to be spectacular.
The Total Solar Eclipse of 2024 will be a significant event for New York, but those seeking a longer period of totality might consider alternative locations. For a potentially superior viewing experience, check out the Texarkana Total Eclipse 2025 predictions. Returning to New York’s eclipse, remember to plan your viewing spot well in advance to secure the best possible view.
New York City will experience a partial solar eclipse in 2024, offering a captivating celestial event for residents. However, for those seeking the full totality experience, a trip further west is necessary; you might consider checking out the path of totality in Michigan, as detailed on this helpful resource: Total Solar Eclipse Michigan 2025. Ultimately, planning your viewing location for the 2024 New York eclipse will depend on your preference for partial versus total eclipse viewing.