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Lifestyle
Science behind a Solar Eclipse: Why does it happen?
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What is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight partially or completely.
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How Does It Happen?
The Earth, Moon, and Sun must align perfectly for a solar eclipse to occur. This happens only during a New Moon phase.
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Why Don’t We See It Every Month?
The Moon’s orbit is tilted by about 5 degrees, so most of the time, it moves above or below the Sun instead of blocking it.
Types of Solar Eclipses
Total Eclipse – Sun is completely covered; Partial Eclipse – Only part of Sun is blocked; Annular Eclipse – "Ring of fire" appears; Hybrid Eclipse – Shifts between total & annular.
The Shadow Zones
Umbra: The dark, central shadow where a total eclipse is visible; Penumbra: The outer shadow where a partial eclipse occurs.
The Speed of an Eclipse
The Moon’s shadow moves across Earth at over 2,000 km/h, making totality last only a few minutes!
What Happens on Earth?
Temperature drops, Animals behave strangely and a 360° sunset effect appears.
Watching an Eclipse Safely
Never look at a solar eclipse with the naked eye! Use eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector.
Solar Eclipse 2025 Timing (IST)
Partial solar eclipse on March 29 will begin at 2:20 PM, peak at 4:17 PM, and end at 6:13 PM, lasting around 4 hours.