Solar Eclipses

A solar eclipse is a special event in the sky. It happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth. The Moon blocks the Sun's light. This makes a shadow fall on part of the Earth. For a short time, the sky can grow dark, even in the middle of the day.

How It Happens

The Sun is very big and very far away. The Moon is much smaller, but it is closer to Earth. Sometimes the Moon lines up just right with the Sun. When this happens, it can cover the Sun from our view. The Moon's shadow then moves across the Earth. People in the shadow see the eclipse.

Types of Solar Eclipses

There are a few kinds of solar eclipses. A total eclipse is when the Moon covers all of the Sun. A partial eclipse is when the Moon covers only part of the Sun. An annular eclipse is when the Moon looks a bit smaller than the Sun, and a bright ring of light shines around it. You should never look straight at the Sun. Always use special eclipse glasses to stay safe.

Fun Facts

• During a total solar eclipse, the sky can get so dark that you can see stars in the daytime.
• A total solar eclipse at any one spot on Earth happens only about once every 375 years.
• Animals sometimes get confused during an eclipse and act like it is nighttime.

Did You Know?

The Sun is about 400 times bigger than the Moon, but it is also about 400 times farther away. That is why they look almost the same size in our sky!