Solar 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 the sun's light.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, causing the Earth's shadow to cover the moon.

Front

How long does it take the moon to orbit the Earth?

Back

27 days.

Front

What is the path of totality?

Back

The path of totality is the area on Earth where a total solar eclipse can be observed.

Front

What causes the moon to appear reddish during a total lunar eclipse?

Back

The Earth's atmosphere scatters sunlight, allowing only the red wavelengths to reach the moon.

Front

Why does a solar eclipse happen quickly?

Back

A solar eclipse is over quickly because the moon keeps moving.

Front

What happens during a partial solar eclipse?

Back

During a partial solar eclipse, only a part of the sun is obscured by the moon.

Front

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

Back

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely covers the sun, while a total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth completely covers the moon.

Front

Why will the moon not fully cover the sun in the future during a solar eclipse?

Back

The moon is slowly drifting away from Earth.

Front

What is the significance of the Earth's atmosphere during a lunar eclipse?

Back

The Earth's atmosphere causes the moon to appear reddish during a total lunar eclipse.