What is the "Path of Totality"?
Quick Answer: The "Path of Totality" is the narrow track on Earth where a total solar eclipse is visible. Only within this path does the Moon completely cover the Sun, turning day into temporary night for a few minutes.
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon casts a shadow on Earth. The darkest part of this shadow, called the umbra, creates the Path of Totality. If you stand inside this path, you see the Sun fully blocked by the Moon.
Outside this path, people witness a partial eclipse where only part of the Sun is covered. The Path of Totality is usually just 100 to 200 miles wide, so you have to be in the right spot to experience the full eclipse magic.