Solar Eclipse: Why It Happens and Types of Eclipses

# Solar Eclipse: Why It Happens and Types of Eclipses ## What is a Solar Eclipse? A solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves in front of the sun, casting its shadow on Earth. This astronomical phenomenon happens when the three celestial bodies - the sun, moon, and Earth - align in a straight line. ## How Does It Happen? The moon orbits Earth approximately every 29.5 days. During this orbit, it occasionally passes directly in front of the sun. When the moon's shadow falls on Earth's surface, observers in that shadow experience a solar eclipse. ## Types of Solar Eclipses ### Total Solar Eclipse A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely covers the sun's disk, blocking all direct sunlight. ### Partial Solar Eclipse A partial eclipse happens when the moon only partially covers the sun. ### Annular Solar Eclipse An annular eclipse occurs when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth, creating a "ring of fire" effect.