An eclipse takes place when one celestial body such as a moon or planet moves into the shadow of another celestial body.
Eclipse of the MoonSometimes, as the Earth orbits the Sun, it comes between the Sun and the Moon. When this happens, the Earth throws a dark shadow across the Moon. This is known as an eclipse of the Moon, or a lunar eclipse.
|
Eclipse of the SunSometimes, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun. The Moon blocks the light of the Sun and a shadow of the Moon is cast on the Earth's surface. This is an eclipse of the Sun, or a solar eclipse.
|
Why Don't Eclipses Occur Every Month?
It's true that the Moon goes around Earth every month. So, why doesn't Earth experience eclipses every month?!
The moon's path around Earth is tilted compared to Earth's orbit around the Sun. The Moon can be behind Earth but still get hit by light from the Sun. This is why we don't get a lunar eclipse every month. |
Eclipses on Other Planets?Pretty much every planet with a moon can have eclipses - here is a photograph of Saturn with a shadow cast from one of its moons.
However, a total solar eclipse on Earth is very unique. This is because of the almost perfect proportions of the size of our Moon and our distance from the Sun. |
Eclipses vs. Moon Phases
Eclipses DO involve shadows.
Moon Phases DO NOT involve shadows.
Moon Phases DO NOT involve shadows.
Video Guide:
|
|
Topic Tips
- An eclipse takes place when one celestial body such as a moon or planet moves into the shadow of another celestial body.