How does a solar eclipse happen?
Quick Answer
A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun and blocks the Sun’s light. It can be partial, total, or annular depending on the alignment and distances involved.
The Full Story
A solar eclipse occurs at new moon when the Moon lines up closely enough with the Sun and Earth to cast a shadow on Earth. A total eclipse happens when the Moon’s dark central shadow, the umbra, reaches the ground; outside that path, observers see a partial eclipse. Because the Moon’s apparent size changes slightly over its orbit, some eclipses are annular, leaving a bright ring of sunlight around the Moon. Totality at any one location is brief, often only a few minutes. The path of totality is usually only about 100 to 200 kilometres wide.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"See how the Moon can turn day into night in minutes"