Solar and Lunar Eclipses

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse is the blocking of the Sun's light that occurs during a new moon when the moon's shadow falls on Earth.

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 fall on the Moon.

Front

When does a solar eclipse occur?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs during a new moon.

Front

When does a lunar eclipse occur?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs during a full moon.

Front

What is the umbra?

Back

The umbra is the darkest part of a shadow during an eclipse, where the light is completely blocked.

Front

What is the penumbra?

Back

The penumbra is the lighter part of a shadow during an eclipse, where the light is partially blocked.

Front

What alignment is needed for a solar eclipse?

Back

The alignment needed for a solar eclipse is the Sun, Moon, and Earth in a straight line, with the Moon in between.

Front

What alignment is needed for a lunar eclipse?

Back

The alignment needed for a lunar eclipse is the Sun, Earth, and Moon in a straight line, with the Earth in between.

Front

Can a solar eclipse occur anytime?

Back

No, a solar eclipse can only occur during a new moon.

Front

Can a lunar eclipse occur anytime?

Back

No, a lunar eclipse can only occur during a full moon.