What Is a Lunar Eclipse?

By jamie

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We’ve all witnessed the different phases of the moon. It is a common misconception these are caused by our planet casting a shadow on the moon from the sun’s light, but this is not correct. Instead, the different phases are caused by the sun’s position relative to the moon. If the sun is to one side, then that side will be illuminated, leaving the other in darkness.

Our planet does sometimes cast a shadow on the moon, however, and this is known as a lunar eclipse. Often, you will barely even notice it is happening. At other times, the results can be visually stunning. Here are some fascinating facts about lunar eclipses.

1. What Is a Lunar Eclipse?

Our moon is quite bright, at least when the weather conditions are right. This is because the surface of the moon is a reflective surface, causing light from the sun to bounce off the moon, much of which will reach us. The light from the sun is usually able to travel all the way to the moon without hindrance.

Sometimes, however, our own planet can get in the way, depending on how the three celestial bodies are lined up. This prevents some of the light from reaching the moon, creating a shadow of our own planet on our moon. This phenomenon is known as a lunar eclipse.

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