Eclipses

solar eclipse

occur when the moon blocks the sun’s light, casting a shadow on Earth.

Earth —> moon —> sun

When do solar eclipses occur?

ONLY during a NEW MOON

Total solar eclipse

moon completely blocks the sun.

partial solar eclipse

when the moon blocks only a portion of the sun.

Why don’t eclipses occur during each revolution of the moon? Why don’t we have one every two weeks?

The orbit of the moon is tilted (5 degrees).

The Moon's orbit is tilted relative to Earth's orbit around the Sun, meaning the Moon's path and the Sun's path don't always cross in a way that allows for an eclipse.

Lunar eclipse

earth blocks the sun’s light, casting a shadow on the moon.

moon —> Earth —> sun

When do lunar eclipses occur?

ONLY during a FULL MOON.

penumbra

(lighter)

the outer, partially shaded region of a shadow, where only part of the light source is blocked, leading to a partial eclipse for observers within it.

umbra

(darker)

the dark center of a shadow cast during an eclipse, where the light source is completely blocked.

blood moon

as the moon passes through Earth’s shadow, it appeasrs red.

Why does blood moon appear red?

scattering of light through Earth’s atmosphere.

Solar eclipses occur during which part of the 24 hour day (daylight or night)?

daylight

Lunar eclipses occur during which part of the 24 hour day (daylight or night)?

night

What is the path of totality during a solar eclipse?

the narrow path on Earth where a total solar eclipse is visible.

How long does a total solar eclipse last? 

a few minutes

What is the difference between a total and partial lunar eclipse?

In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon is in Earth's shadow, while in a partial lunar eclipse, only part of the Moon is in the shadow. 

How often do lunar eclipses occur? 

about every 18 months

Why does the moon orbit the Earth instead of moving off into space?

The Moon has inertia, which means it naturally wants to move in a straight line through space. However, Earth's gravity constantly pulls the Moon towards itself, causing it to curve around the Earth instead of moving off in a straight line. 

Why does the moon’s appearance change during the lunar cycle?

As the Moon orbits the Earth, the Sun lights up different parts of it, making it seem as if the Moon is changing shape.