An eclipse takes place when one celestial body such as a moon or planet moves into the shadow of another celestial body.
Solar Eclipse
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth, blocking the Sun’s light and casting a shadow over a certain area on Earth. This can only occur during a New Moon phase.
Total Solar EclipseA total solar eclipse occurs when the new Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, and totally blocks out the Sun.
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Partial Solar Eclipse |
A Student's Guide to Solar and Lunar Eclipses
Thank you Hannah from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania!
Way to go earning your Space Sciences Explorer Badge!
Way to go earning your Space Sciences Explorer Badge!
Want to learn more about seasons, solstices, and equinoxes? (click here)
Thank you, Julie from the Hastings Recreation Center in Minnesota!
Thank you, Julie from the Hastings Recreation Center in Minnesota!
Video Guide:
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Topic Tips
- A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth, blocking the Sun’s light and casting a shadow over a certain area on Earth.
- Solar eclipses can only occur during a New Moon phase.