solar eclipse

The Moon blocks some or all of the Sun from view. This topic is part of Astronomy within Science & Nature. This page currently draws on 7 supporting questions, with answers and bonus facts available below.

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solar eclipse trivia questions

A solar eclipse occurs when what passes between Earth and the Sun?

Answer: Moon

Bonus fact: The Moon blocks some or all of the Sun from view.

During a total solar eclipse, what outer part of the Sun becomes especially visible?

Answer: Corona

Bonus fact: The faint corona can be seen when the bright photosphere is blocked.

Why doesn't a solar eclipse occur at every new moon?

Answer: The Moon's orbit is tilted relative to Earth's orbit

Bonus fact: Most new moons pass above or below the Sun from Earth's viewpoint.

During a total solar eclipse, what is the bright outer atmosphere of the Sun called?

Answer: Corona

Bonus fact: The solar corona becomes dramatically visible when the Moon blocks the Sun's bright surface.

What blocks the Sun during a solar eclipse?

Answer: The Moon

Bonus fact: A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon fully covers the Sun from a viewer’s location.

What is the darkest central part of a shadow during an eclipse called?

Answer: Umbra

Bonus fact: Observers in the Moon's umbra can experience a total solar eclipse.

What astronomical event made the 1919 test possible?

Answer: Total solar eclipse

Bonus fact: The eclipse darkened the sky near the Sun enough to photograph stars.

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