MESQUITE, Texas (AP) — A chilly, midday darkness fell across North America as a total solar eclipse began its race across the continent. Monday’s spectacle was eagerly awaited by millions of spectators in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. It’s North America’s biggest eclipse crowd ever, thanks to the densely populated path. Cloud cover threatened to spoil the view in some places, especially in parts of Texas, but the skies cleared with minutes to spare. During a total solar eclipse, the moon passes in front of the sun and blocks the sunlight for a few minutes. The rest of North America will see a partial eclipse, weather permitting.