Total eclipse

Definition

A total eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, as seen from Earth. This results in the darkening of the sky and the appearance of the Sun's corona.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Total solar eclipses are relatively rare events, occurring approximately every 18 months somewhere on Earth.
2. The path of totality is a narrow corridor, usually about 100-200 kilometers wide, where observers can see the total eclipse.
3. Total eclipses can only occur during a new moon when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are perfectly aligned in a straight line or syzygy.
4. Observers outside the path of totality will see a partial eclipse where only part of the Sun is obscured by the Moon.
5. The duration of totality can last up to around 7.5 minutes but is typically much shorter.

Review Questions

• What celestial event must occur for a total eclipse to happen?
• How often do total solar eclipses occur somewhere on Earth?
• What is the significance of the path of totality in observing a total eclipse?

Related terms

partial_eclipse: An event where only part of the Sun or Moon is obscured.

annular_eclipse: An event where the Moon covers most but not all of the Sun, creating a ring-like appearance.

syzygy: An astronomical term for when three celestial bodies align in a straight line.