Understanding Eclipses: From Ancient Fear to Modern Science

What did ancient people believe was happening during an eclipse?

• The sun was cooling down.

• The sun was being eaten by a dragon.

• The sun was hiding.

• The sun was angry.

What did ancient civilizations use to explain eclipses?

• Scientific theories.

• Optical illusions.

• Mathematical equations.

• Mythological stories.

What is the primary purpose of Stonehenge according to the video?

• A calendar system.

• A religious temple.

• An observatory for celestial events.

• A royal burial site.

What was the significance of the 3300-year old clay tablet?

• It was used as a map.

• It contained a recipe.

• It described a total solar eclipse.

• It was a peace treaty.

What pattern do lunar eclipses follow?

• Every 5 years.

• Every 18 years, 11 days, and 8 hours.

• Every 10 years.

• Every 25 years.

What does the saros cycle predict?

• Solar eclipses only.

• Lunar eclipses only.

• Both lunar and solar eclipses.

• The movement of planets.

How does the path of a solar eclipse change with each cycle?

• It becomes shorter.

• It moves 120 degrees westward.

• It remains the same.

• It moves 120 degrees eastward.

How far into the future can we predict eclipses?

• 100 years

• 500 years

• 1000 years

• Far beyond 2974

When is the next total solar eclipse visible in North America after 2023?

• December 25, 2025

• October 14, 2023

• April 8, 2024

• September 7, 2974

What is NASA HEAT's mission?

• To explore the universe.

• To study black holes.

• To find alien life.

• To deepen understanding of the Sun and its effects.