Eclipses

Front

What is an eclipse?

Back

An eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when one celestial body moves into the shadow of another celestial body.

Front

What are the two main types of eclipses?

Back

The two main types of eclipses are solar eclipses 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 all or part of the Sun's light.

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 is the umbra?

Back

The umbra is the inner, darker part of a shadow where the light is completely blocked.

Front

What is the penumbra?

Back

The penumbra is the outer part of a shadow where the light is partially blocked.

Front

During which moon phase does a solar eclipse occur?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs during the New Moon phase.

Front

During which moon phase does a lunar eclipse occur?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs during the Full Moon phase.

Front

What must you be in to see a total solar eclipse?

Back

You must be in the umbra to see a total solar eclipse.

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, while in a partial solar eclipse, only part of the Sun is obscured.