Eclipses

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon blocks the Sun's light and casts a shadow on Earth.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

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

Front

What alignment is needed for an eclipse to occur?

Back

The Moon, Sun, and Earth must be in a line (in alignment).

Front

What is the order of the Earth, Moon, and Sun during a solar eclipse?

Back

The order is: Moon, Sun, Earth.

Front

What is the order of the Earth, Moon, and Sun during a lunar eclipse?

Back

The order is: Sun, Earth, Moon.

Front

When does a solar eclipse occur?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs during the day when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun.

Front

When does a lunar eclipse occur?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs at night when the Earth's shadow falls on the Moon.

Front

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

Back

The shadow cast by the Moon is called the umbra.

Front

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

Back

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, while a partial solar eclipse occurs when only part of the Sun is obscured.

Front

What is a penumbral lunar eclipse?

Back

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