Solar eclipse and lunar eclipse
In this article we will provide you the Difference between solar eclipse and lunar eclipse Similarities and FAQs.
What does solar eclipse mean?
A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon that happens when the Moon comes between the Sun and Earth, partially or completely blocking the Sun’s rays. This produces a shadow in some parts of the Earth, where residents can see drastic changes in the light level for several hours. If there is a total eclipse, the entire affected region will experience a large amount of darkness for several minutes. During these moments, characteristic reddish flashes will also be seen as if it were sunset as some light filters from the lateral edges of the lunar star. Generally, people enjoy watching solar eclipses from their homes with binoculars or a telescope to enhance their viewing experience.
What does lunar eclipse mean?
A lunar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs when the moon, in its orbit around the Earth, is between the Sun and our planet. This prevents sunlight from reaching the Moon’s surface directly. The illuminated side of the Moon will be completely hidden , producing what we call a lunar eclipse. During the eclipse, observers from anywhere in the world can see how our planet’s shadow completely covers a part of Earth’s natural satellite. Lunar eclipses are visible throughout the world and do not require any type of instruments to be clearly appreciated by the human eye.
Similarities
Both eclipses are optical phenomena produced by the interaction between the Sun, Moon and Earth. In a solar eclipse, the sun’s rays do not reach our planet because they are partially or totally blocked by the Moon; However, during a lunar eclipse the opposite happens: it is our satellite that is partially or totally covered by the Earth’s shadow. These shadows are cone-shaped and from the ground appear as if they were a gigantic floppy disk. Both eclipses can be observed from somewhere in the world twice a year, but normally to see them completely you have to travel to the places where said shadow falls.
Differences
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, hiding part of it. This causes a temporary reduction in brightness in a certain area of the Earth that can last from a few minutes to several hours depending on the exact location where it occurs. For its part, a lunar eclipse , usually simply called an eclipse, is the opposite phenomenon, although inverted; This time it is the Sun who comes between the Moon and our planet, blocking the solar rays that fall on it to illuminate it. The shadow cast by this event will travel across large parts of the continents for almost three hours at most.
Frequent questions
When is the day of the solar eclipse?
The next solar eclipse visible in the United States will occur on April 8, 2024.
How long does the solar eclipse last?
A solar eclipse lasts from a few seconds to around 7 minutes, depending on geographic location.
What is the difference between a solar and lunar eclipse?
The difference between a solar and lunar eclipse is that a solar eclipse occurs when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth, partially or completely blocking the Sun’s brightness. A lunar eclipse, on the other hand, happens when the Earth comes between between the Sun and the Moon, partially or completely blocking parts of the Sun’s light from reaching those on the side of the Earth illuminated by it.
When is there a lunar eclipse in 2022?
The next total lunar eclipse will occur on May 26, 2022.
What happens when there is a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the moon travels through the Earth’s shadow. This makes the visible disk of the moon appear darker, and its color varies from a grayish hue to black. During a total eclipse, the entire visible surface of the moon is in shadow. A lunar eclipse is different from a solar eclipse in that there is no danger to humans if they look directly at the phenomenon.
How long does the 2022 lunar eclipse last?
The 2022 lunar eclipse will last approximately 14 minutes and 30 seconds.
How many times a year does a lunar eclipse occur?
A lunar eclipse occurs approximately 2 times a year.
