The transit of tiny planet Mercury across the sun happens only 13 times each century— and the internet took full advantage of documenting the spectacle.
During the transit, Mercury passed between the sun and Earth's line of sight, making the planet appear like a small black dot moving across the massive star.
The astronomical event lasted from 7:12 a.m. EDT through 2:42 p.m. EDT on Monday, May 9, and it was visible from most parts of the world.
Here are some of our favorite photos, videos, and GIFs we've seen on social media so far.
Warning: Do not look at the sun without adequate protective eye wear or solar filters, especially if you're using binoculars or a telescope!
Instagram suer astrofotografen shared a photo showing just how tiny Mercury is compared to the sun.
http://instagram.com/p/BFMAKmTEeoh/embed/
Width: 800px
Source: astrofotografen
Miss that? Here's a closer shot — the tiny black dot is Mercury.
http://instagram.com/p/BFMOF84tmbp/embed/
Width: 800px
And here's an even closer view, as seen by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO).
https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/729695911039770626
#MercuryTransit SDO AIA 193/304 close-up via @Helioviewer. https://t.co/PaJRiYWIp4pic.twitter.com/0lVp3BtRfB
Source: Twitter
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