4-11-2025. 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, blocking the light from the sun or another star.

Front

What are the two main types of eclipses?

Back

The two main types of eclipses are solar eclipses and lunar eclipses.

Front

What happens during a solar eclipse?

Back

During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun's light.

Front

What happens during a lunar eclipse?

Back

During a lunar eclipse, the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to fall on the Moon.

Front

What is a total solar eclipse?

Back

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, as viewed from Earth.

Front

What is a partial solar eclipse?

Back

A partial solar eclipse occurs when only a part of the Sun is obscured by the Moon.

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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's surface.

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

How often do eclipses occur?

Back

Eclipses occur several times a year, but total solar eclipses are less frequent at any given location.