Why Eclipses Look So Mysterious (But Aren’t)

By Samdeep Singh · July 30, 2025

Eclipses may look like magic, but they are actually science in action. They happen when the Sun, Moon, and Earth line up in a straight line.

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon comes between Earth and the Sun. It blocks some or all of the sunlight, making the day turn dark for a short time. This can only happen during a new moon.

A lunar eclipse happens when Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon. The Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon, making it look red or disappear. This can only happen during a full moon.

Eclipses don’t happen every month because the Moon’s orbit is slightly tilted. So most of the time, the Sun, Earth, and Moon don’t line up perfectly.

In the past, people were scared of eclipses. But now we know they are predictable and completely natural. Scientists can even tell the exact date and time of the next one.

So the next time you see an eclipse, don’t be afraid — just enjoy the show in the sky!