Eclipses

Name: _________________________________       Date: _____________

Eclipses have awed and fascinated humans for as long as they have walked on Earth. What causes eclipses? What's the difference between a lunar and a solar eclipse? You'll find out in this Planet Diary activity.

1. First, explore lunar eclipses. Sketch the positions of the Earth, Sun, and Moon during a lunar eclipse.
2. What phase must the Moon be in during a lunar eclipse? Explain why.
3. What is a penumbral lunar eclipse?
4. What's the difference between a partial and total lunar eclipse?
5. Next, find out about solar eclipses. Sketch the positions of the Earth, Sun, and Moon during a solar eclipse.
6. What phase must the Moon be in for a solar eclipse? Explain why.
7. What's the difference between the Moon's penumbra and umbra shadows?
8. Why isn't there a solar eclipse every month?