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 fall on the Moon.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light from reaching the Earth.

Front

What is a partial solar eclipse?

Back

A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon only partially covers the Sun, allowing some sunlight to reach the Earth.

Front

What is a total solar eclipse?

Back

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, resulting in darkness during the day.

Front

What is a penumbral lunar eclipse?

Back

A penumbral lunar eclipse happens when the Moon passes through the Earth's penumbral shadow, causing a subtle shading on the Moon's surface.

Front

Why does a lunar eclipse always occur during a full moon?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs during a full moon because that is when the Earth is directly between the Sun and the Moon.

Front

What is the difference between a lunar eclipse and a solar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse involves the Earth blocking sunlight from reaching the Moon, while a solar eclipse involves the Moon blocking sunlight from reaching the Earth.

Front

What phase of the Moon is present during a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs during the new moon phase when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun.

Front

What causes the different types of solar eclipses?

Back

The different types of solar eclipses (total, partial, and annular) are caused by the varying distances between the Earth, Moon, and Sun.

Front

What is the umbra in an eclipse?

Back

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