Eclipses

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

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

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

When does a lunar eclipse occur?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs at night when the Moon is in the Earth's shadow.

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 partially blocked.

Front

What is the corona?

Back

The corona is the outer atmosphere of the Sun, visible during a total solar eclipse.

Front

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

Back

In a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun; in a partial solar eclipse, only part of the Sun is obscured.

Front

What safety measures should be taken during a solar eclipse?

Back

It is important to use proper solar viewing glasses or eclipse viewers to protect your eyes.

Front

How often do solar eclipses occur?

Back

Solar eclipses can occur 2 to 5 times a year, but total solar eclipses are less frequent.

Front

What is the significance of the path of totality?

Back

The path of totality is the area where a total solar eclipse can be observed; it is a narrow path on the Earth's surface.