There are two types of shadows during an eclipse: an umbra and a penumbra.
The umbra is the darkest part of the shadow. If you are standing in the umbra, the source of light is completely blocked by the object causing the shadow.
A penumbra occurs when the light source is only partly blocked and there is a partial shadow.
Eclipses do not occur every month because the Earth, Moon and Sun do not always line up exactly. Lunar eclipses can be seen much more often than solar eclipses.
F The Ancient
Chinese thought a solar eclipse was a demon eating the Sun.
Find out the dates that the next lunar and solar eclipses can be seen from where you live. When will the next solar and lunar eclipses happen?
Observing Eclipses
We must never look directly at the Sun. When observing an eclipse, we need to protect our eyes. Sunglasses will not provide sufficient protection during an eclipse.
The Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can burn the retinas in our eyes, leading to permanent damage or even blindness. This can happen even if your eyes are exposed to direct sunlight for a few seconds.
Learn more about UV radiation in Biological World 4.3
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Fig. 23.2.6 A solar eclipse
Looking at solar eclipses safely
Investigate how solar eclipses can be viewed safely. List three precautions that should be taken when viewing a solar eclipse. Ensure the information you use is from a reliable source.
