Eclipses

Eclipses

1. A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and the Earth - on the same line - casting a shadow of the Moon on the surface of the Earth. This would happen during the new moon phase of the lunar cycle.

2. If the Moon completely obscures the Sun (when viewed from Earth), it is called a total eclipse. If the Moon partially obscures the Sun, it is a partial eclipse.

3. Viewing eclipses with the naked eye can cause permenant damage.

4. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow of the Earth on the surface of the Moon. This would happen during a full moon.