2024 Eclipses

Front

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

Back

A Lunar Eclipse occurs when the Earth is positioned directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to cover the Moon.

Front

What is a Solar Eclipse?

Back

A Solar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun's light.

Front

What is a Total Eclipse?

Back

A Total Eclipse is when the Sun's surface is completely blocked out by the Moon, resulting in complete darkness during the day.

Front

What is a Partial Eclipse?

Back

A Partial Eclipse occurs when only a part of the Sun or Moon is obscured, meaning that the shadow does not completely cover the celestial body.

Front

What is the Umbra?

Back

The Umbra is the darkest part of a shadow during an eclipse, where the light source is completely blocked.

Front

What is the Penumbra?

Back

The Penumbra is the lighter part of a shadow during an eclipse, where the light source is only partially blocked.

Front

What happens during a Lunar Eclipse?

Back

During a Lunar Eclipse, the Earth casts a shadow on the Moon, which can cause the Moon to appear red or dark.

Front

What happens during a Solar Eclipse?

Back

During a Solar Eclipse, the Moon covers the Sun, and it can cause the sky to darken as if it were twilight.

Front

What is the difference between a Total and Partial Eclipse?

Back

In a Total Eclipse, the Sun or Moon is completely covered, while in a Partial Eclipse, only part of the Sun or Moon is obscured.

Front

What is the significance of the path of totality?

Back

The path of totality is the area on Earth where a total solar eclipse can be observed, and it is where the eclipse is most dramatic.