untitledSolar 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 cover the Moon.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

What is the appearance of the Moon during a total lunar eclipse?

Back

The Moon appears red or orange due to Rayleigh scattering of sunlight through the Earth's atmosphere.

Front

During which phase of the Moon does a solar eclipse occur?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs during the New Moon phase.

Front

What protective eyewear is necessary for viewing a solar eclipse?

Back

Eclipse glasses are necessary to protect your eyes from harmful solar radiation.

Front

What is the umbra in an eclipse?

Back

The umbra is the darkest part of a shadow where the light source is completely blocked.

Front

What is the penumbra in an eclipse?

Back

The penumbra is the lighter part of a shadow where the light source is only partially blocked.

Front

What causes the red color of the Moon during a lunar eclipse?

Back

The red color is caused by sunlight being refracted through the Earth's atmosphere, filtering out blue light.

Front

Can a solar eclipse occur at any time?

Back

No, a solar eclipse can only occur during a New Moon when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned.