Eclipse

• Occurs when any part of the Earth or the Moon enters the shadow of the other
• The darkest part of the shadow the umbra
• The lighter, more diffuse region of the shadow is called the penumbra
• The Moon is usually sufficiently above or below the ecliptic plane to avoid an eclipse
  • The paths cross twice a year

Solar Eclipse

• The Moon's shadow covers the Earth and partially hides the Sun
• Total solar eclipse
  • When the Moon is close to its average distance from the Earth, it can cover the Sun completely
  • Very small area on the Earth
  • Eclipse path travels at 1500 km/hour

Lunar Eclipse

• Earth's shadow covers the Moon
• Can only occur when the Earth/Sun/The Moon are in line
• Total lunar eclipse
  • The Moon's path must go through the Earth's umbra

Space Astronomy Earth The Moon Sun