Our Solar System
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8. Solar eclipse

A s
olar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth an the Sun .

This casts a shadow on the Earth and blocks Earth’s view of the Sun.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon’s shadow completely blocks the Sun as you can see in the picture.

When only a portion of the Sun is out of view, it is called a partial solar eclipse.

Solar eclipses are rare and usually only last a few minutes because the Moon casts only a small shadow.

Important reminder: Never look directly at the sun, even during a total solar eclipse, without protection such as verified eclipse glasses; serious and permanent eye damage can result.

Learn about Solar eclipse with this NASA video.

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