Difference between Solar and Lunar Eclipse

Difference Between Solar Eclipse and Lunar Eclipse

 An eclipse happens when one celestial body blocks another in the observer’s line of sight. Lunar and solar eclipses are events when the sun, moon, and earth are tandem.

  • Solar eclipse: For a solar eclipse to occur, the moon should be between the earth and the sun.
  • Lunar eclipse: For a lunar eclipse to occur, the earth should be between the sun and the moon.

Here, in this article, let us look at the various differences between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.

Read More: Celestial Body

Solar Eclipse vs Lunar Eclipse

Solar Eclipse Lunar Eclipse
Solar eclipse is the one in which the moon is in between the earth and the sun. Lunar eclipse is the one in which the earth is in between the sun and the moon.
It occurs once in 18 months. It occurs twice a year.
It lasts for about 5-7 minutes. It lasts for an hour.
It is witnessed in a few places. It is witnessed in many places.
It occurs during day time. It occurs during night time.
The solar eclipse happens in the new moon phase. When the moon is in its full moon phase, a lunar eclipse happens.
If you look directly, then there are high chances of losing vision as it damages the retina. Witnessing a lunar eclipse with bare eyes is harmless as it does not cause any damage to the eyes.

Scientists eagerly wait for an eclipse to occur because the effect it has on all life on earth is of particular interest to them. Solar eclipse helps scientists to gather more knowledge about the sun and its position with respect to the sun.

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Also Read:

Difference Between Science and Technology Difference Between Data and Information
Difference Between Comet and Asteroids Difference Between Meteor and Meteorite

 

Watch This Interesting Video on Rare Annular Solar Eclipse to Learn More about This Amazing Phenomenon

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Q1

What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the earth and the sun. It happens once every 18 months.
Q2

What is a lunar eclipse?

The lunar eclipse happens twice a year when the earth passes between the sun and the moon.
Q3

What are comets?

Small ice and rock fragments known as comets originate from the solar system’s outermost regions. The ice on them vaporises as their orbit moves them closer to the sun, leaving behind them a stunning tail.
Q4

What are asteroids?

Asteroids are small, irregularly shaped rocks made up of metals or minerals that orbit the sun. Most of them are found between Mars and Jupiter in an area known as the asteroid belt.
Q5

What is a satellite?

A satellite is any object that orbits the sun, the earth, or any other massive planet. When it comes to categorising satellites, there are primarily two categories: man-made and natural.
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  1.  Varsha sharma
    December 4, 2019 at 3:39 pm

    It is very helpful thank u so much

    Reply