Millions of people across the country had their eyes set to the sky this afternoon to witness the Great American Eclipse.

The solar event carved a “path of totality” through a portion of the country as daylight was blotted out. The path encompassed several major cities and left an estimated 44 million people within its track. The Chicago area saw about 94% totality while areas downstate and in neighboring states fell within the path.

Clear skies and comfortable temperatures added to the experience to those who took an afternoon break to view the cosmos.  

Hundreds of people gathered outside the Adler Planetarium in downtown Chicago for a viewing party. People brought telescopes, cameras and the necessary protective eyeglasses.

Chicago resident Chana Wilson attended the event with her son, Darrell Liggins, and covered he phone’s camera with the requisite filter.

Chicagoans gather near Montrose Harbor on April 8, 2024, to capture a glimpse of the eclipse. (Michael Izquierdo / WTTW News)

Throughout the day, planetarium staff passed out those special filters.

Lavll Wells bought his first telescope to experience the moment.

“I thought it would be something cool to experience,” Wells said.

When the eclipse reached its peak in Chicago, the light dimmed and there was a noticeable temperature drop.

Other parts of the country experienced even more dramatic dips in light.

In Toledo, Ohio, a WTTW News reporter caught the moments before the eclipse reached its totality.

The moment of totality in Toledo. So worth the trip to spend with my sis and niece!!! #eclipse2024 pic.twitter.com/xOX2y25o7J

— Patty Wetli (@pattywetli) April 8, 2024

A solar eclipse won’t impact the continental U.S. until 2044, but will not be visible in Illinois.