It's impossible to predict how 2017 will shake out in full, but one thing is for certain—it will be another remarkable year for space science. Read on for Motherboard's preview of the most momentous launches, missions, and celestial events to look forward to over the next 12 months, from the maiden flight of a colossal rocket to the swan song of Saturn's workhorse orbiter.

On August 21, 2017, skywatchers in the continental United States will be treated to a total solar eclipse for the first time since 1979. When the Moon passes in front of the Sun that Monday, it will cast a 70-mile-wide moving shadow, called the "path of totality," that will travel from Oregon to South Carolina in 94 minutes. North Americans who don't fall under the direct route of the occultation will still get to enjoy partial eclipses, depending on the latitude.