A solar eclipse is a spectacular natural phenomenon that occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun’s light from reaching Earth. This alignment causes a shadow to be cast on parts of our planet, creating an awe-inspiring celestial event for those lucky enough to be in the path of the eclipse.
How Does a Solar Eclipse Happen?
The Moon orbits the Earth, and when it passes directly between the Earth and the Sun during a new moon phase, it can partially or completely cover the Sun’s face as seen from Earth. This occurrence forms the basis of a solar eclipse.
The Moon casts two types of shadows on Earth during an eclipse:
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The umbra, a smaller, darker shadow where the Sun is fully obscured, causing a total solar eclipse for observers within this zone.
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The penumbra, a larger, lighter shadow where only part of the Sun is covered, leading to a partial solar eclipse.
Types of Solar Eclipses
Depending on the alignment and distance between the Earth, Moon, and Sun, there are several types of solar eclipses:
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Total Solar Eclipse: The Moon completely covers the Sun’s disk, turning day into night briefly and revealing the Sun’s corona, an outer atmosphere that is usually hidden by bright sunlight.
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Partial Solar Eclipse: The Moon blocks only a part of the Sun, creating a crescent shape of sunlight.
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Annular Solar Eclipse: The Moon covers the center of the Sun but appears smaller than the Sun in the sky, leaving a bright “ring of fire” around the Moon.
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Hybrid Solar Eclipse: A rare event that shifts between a total and annular eclipse along different points of the Earth's surface.
Why Don't Solar Eclipses Happen Every Month?
Although the Moon orbits Earth every month, solar eclipses don’t occur monthly because the Moon’s orbit is tilted about 5 degrees relative to Earth's orbit around the Sun. This means the Moon’s shadow usually misses Earth. Eclipses happen only during specific periods known as "eclipse seasons," about twice a year.
Experiencing a Solar Eclipse
Watching a total solar eclipse is a breathtaking experience — the sky darkens as if it were dawn or dusk, temperatures drop, and the stars become visible in daytime. Animals often behave as though night has fallen. For a few precious minutes, viewers in the path of totality see the spectacular corona of the Sun.
Safety is vital: never look directly at the Sun without proper solar eclipse glasses that meet international safety standards to protect your eyes.
When Will the Next Solar Eclipse Happen?
The next total solar eclipse visible in Europe will occur on August 12, 2026. It will cross countries, including Spain and provide a unique opportunity for millions to witness this celestial marvel safely.
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