Skip to content
AxomiyaTools

Physics · Earth and space

Solar Eclipse

A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth and its shadow falls on the Earth.

SunMoonEarthSide view — sizes and distances not to scaleSeen from Earth
What people see
Total solar eclipse
Sun covered
100%
Moon looks
a little bigger than the Sun
⚠️ Never look straight at the Sun, even when it is partly covered. Use certified eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector.

Moon’s distance from Earth

Try this

  1. Move the Moon to new moon with the Moon on the line. What do people see from Earth?
  2. Switch the Moon to “far from Earth”. Why is there a ring of Sun left?
  3. Lift the Moon above the line. Why is there no eclipse at most new moons?

Key ideas

  • A solar eclipse can only happen at new moon.
  • Total eclipse: the Moon looks as big as the Sun and covers it completely. Annular: the Moon looks a little smaller, leaving a ring of light.
  • The Moon’s orbit is tilted by about 5° to the Earth’s orbit, so most new moons pass above or below the Sun.
  • Never look at the Sun directly, even during an eclipse — use proper eclipse glasses.