Moon Phases and Eclipses

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to fall on the Moon.

Front

What phase of the Moon occurs during a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse only happens during a Full Moon.

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to complete one orbit around the Earth?

Back

It takes about 28 days for the Moon to make one complete cycle around the Earth.

Front

What is the position of the Moon during a 1st quarter phase?

Back

In the 1st quarter phase, the Moon is positioned at a 90-degree angle from the Earth and Sun, with half of the Moon illuminated.

Front

Why does the same side of the Moon always face the Earth?

Back

The same side of the Moon always faces Earth because the Moon revolves around Earth and rotates on its axis in about the same amount of time.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

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

Front

What phase of the Moon occurs during a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse only happens during a New Moon.

Front

What is the difference between a total and partial lunar eclipse?

Back

In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon passes through the Earth's umbra (full shadow), while in a partial lunar eclipse, only a part of the Moon enters the umbra.

Front

What is the umbra?

Back

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

Front

What is the penumbra?

Back

The penumbra is the lighter part of a shadow, where the light source is only partially blocked.