Solar and Lunar Eclipses

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

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

Front

How often do solar eclipses occur?

Back

Approximately every 18 months.

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 causes a lunar eclipse?

Back

Earth passing between the Sun and the Moon.

Front

What causes a solar eclipse?

Back

The Moon passing between the Sun and the Earth.

Front

What color does the Moon appear during a lunar eclipse?

Back

The Moon can appear reddish due to Earth's atmosphere filtering sunlight.

Front

What is the difference between a solar and lunar eclipse?

Back

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

Front

What is an annular eclipse?

Back

An annular eclipse occurs when the Moon is too far from the Earth to completely cover the Sun, leaving a ring-like appearance.

Front

What is the term for the shadow cast by the Earth during a lunar eclipse?

Back

Umbra.

Front

What is the term for the shadow cast by the Moon during a solar eclipse?

Back

Umbra.