A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow on the Earth’s surface. This alignment results in different types of eclipses:
- Total Eclipse: When the Moon perfectly aligns with the Sun, fully blocking its light, creating a phenomenon known as “totality.”
- Partial Eclipse: When the alignment is not perfect, and only a portion of the Sun is obscured by the Moon.
- Annular Eclipse: When the alignment is perfect, but the Moon is at a further point in its orbit, appearing smaller and not completely covering the Sun, creating a ring-like effect known as the “ring of fire.”
The rarity of a total solar eclipse lies in the fact that it is visible only along a very narrow path on Earth for a few minutes, making it one of nature’s most extraordinary and fleeting events.
Category:
Solar