What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, causing the Sun's light to be partially or completely blocked from reaching a specific area on Earth.

The main components involved in a solar eclipse are the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun. For a solar eclipse to occur, these three celestial bodies must be aligned in a straight line, with the Moon in the middle. The Moon's shadow then falls on Earth, blocking or obscuring the Sun's light from reaching certain regions.

There are three main types of solar eclipses: total, partial, and annular. - Total solar eclipse: This occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, casting a dark shadow on a specific region of Earth. Observers in the path of totality experience darkness for a few minutes as if it was night time. - Partial solar eclipse: This type of solar eclipse happens when the Moon covers only a portion of the Sun, resulting in the Sun appearing as a crescent. Observers on Earth see the Moon taking a "bite" out of the Sun. - Annular solar eclipse: During an annular solar eclipse, the Moon is at a farther distance from the Earth, causing it to appear smaller in the sky. This means that it does not entirely cover the Sun, leaving a ring (or "annulus") of sunlight visible around the Moon.

Viewing a solar eclipse requires special precautions, as the Sun's ultraviolet and infrared radiation can cause permanent eye damage if viewed directly. Observers should use certified solar filters or solar glasses to protect their eyes while watching this celestial event. Alternatively, people can use pinhole projectors or other indirect methods to project the solar eclipse's image onto a suitable surface.