Eclipses are astronomical events that occur when one celestial body moves into the shadow of another celestial body or when one body passes in front of another from a specific viewpoint. The most commonly recognized types of eclipses are solar eclipses and lunar eclipses.
A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun’s light. There are different types of solar eclipses: total, partial, and annular, depending on the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth.
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth’s shadow to cover the Moon. Lunar eclipses can also be total, partial, or penumbral, depending on the alignment and the extent of the shadow cast.
Eclipses are significant in astronomy, as they provide opportunities to study the Sun’s corona, lunar surface, and the dynamics of planetary orbits. They also have cultural and historical significance, often influencing mythology and calendars across various civilizations.