What can Oklahomans expect to see in the total solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse is here and excitement is growing around the state. So, what will you see from the path of totality and around Oklahoma?

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The total solar eclipse is here and excitement is growing around the state. So, what will you see from the path of totality and around Oklahoma?

"A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes in between the sun and the earth, and casts a shadow on the earth, blocking out the sun," said Dr. Kelly Korreck, the NASA Program Manager for the Eclipse.

The path of totality hits the southeastern part of Oklahoma.

Dr. Korreck said there's more than just a change in the sky. The weather will also get a little cooler as the moon passes.

The eclipse can also affect animals.

"Animals also react to this thinking it's night time and thinking that you know it's it's time to go to bed. You will also possibly be able to see planets. There are five planets that can possibly be visible," said Korreck.

While a total solar eclipse happened in 2017, the April 8th eclipse is actually different!

"In 2024, we're towards a maximum amount of activity, meaning the picture you get when the moon crosses in front of the sun and and shows you that atmosphere. The atmosphere is gonna be much more structured and complex than it was in 2017," said Korreck.

Dr. Korreck also said the path is different and the length of totality is almost 2 minutes longer than 2017.

If you can't make it out to the eastern part of the state, it's still possible to see from the metro.

"We'll get about 93%, 94% in Oklahoma City. So at that level, the sun is actually still surprisingly bright, but it will look more like an overcast day at that point in time," said Korreck.

So, grab your solar glasses...and look up!

If you miss the eclipse, the next time the U.S. will see a total solar eclipse is in 20 years!

News 4's Hunter Elyse will be in Southeastern Oklahoma covering the eclipse. We'll have more Monday evening.