Solar and lunar eclipses in 3D

Move the Moon round its orbit to make a solar or lunar eclipse, then tilt the orbit to see why they are rare.

Learn eclipses properly

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Questions students ask

What is the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse?

In a solar eclipse the Moon is between the Sun and the Earth and blocks the Sun. In a lunar eclipse the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon, and the Moon is in the Earth's shadow.

Why is there not an eclipse every month?

The Moon's orbit is tilted about 5° to the Earth's, so at most new and full moons it passes above or below the Sun–Earth line.

Free notes on eclipses

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