Eclipses

Front

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

Back

A Lunar Eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight from reaching the Moon.

Front

What phase is the Moon in during a Lunar Eclipse?

Back

Full

Front

What is a Solar Eclipse?

Back

A Solar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight from reaching the Earth.

Front

What phase is the Moon in during a Solar Eclipse?

Back

New

Front

What happens during a Partial Lunar Eclipse?

Back

The Moon is partially in the Earth’s umbra and partially in the Earth’s penumbra.

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.

Front

What causes a Lunar Eclipse?

Back

A Lunar Eclipse is caused by the Earth blocking sunlight from reaching the Moon.

Front

What causes a Solar Eclipse?

Back

A Solar Eclipse is caused by the Moon blocking sunlight from reaching the Earth.

Front

What is the difference between a total and partial Solar Eclipse?

Back

In a total Solar Eclipse, the Sun is completely covered by the Moon; in a partial Solar Eclipse, only part of the Sun is obscured.