Solar & Lunar Eclipses — Interactive Diagram
See exactly how the Sun, Earth and Moon line up to create a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.
TL;DR: See exactly how the Sun, Earth and Moon line up to create a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
Solar & Lunar Eclipses: See exactly how the Sun, Earth and Moon line up to create a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.
Why it matters: Eclipses are a favourite exam and quiz topic — students often confuse which body is in the middle. The diagram fixes that instantly.
Solar & Lunar Eclipses — Step by Step
- The Sun, Earth and Moon are always moving. An eclipse happens only when all three line up in a straight line.
- SOLAR ECLIPSE: at NEW MOON the MOON moves between the Sun and Earth. Its shadow falls on Earth, blocking the Sun for people there.
- LUNAR ECLIPSE: at FULL MOON the EARTH moves between the Sun and Moon. Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon, so the Moon darkens.
Quick Notes — the Exam Crux
- A SOLAR eclipse happens at NEW MOON, when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth and blocks the Sun.
- A LUNAR eclipse happens at FULL MOON, when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, and Earth's shadow falls on the Moon.
- Eclipses do not happen every month because the Moon's orbit is tilted by about 5°.
- Never look at a solar eclipse with bare eyes — it can permanently damage the retina; a lunar eclipse is safe to watch.
Remember It (Memory Trick)
SOlar = Sun hidden, mOOn in the middle. LUnar = mOOn dark, earth in the middle. "New Moon → Solar, Full Moon → Lunar."
Real-Life Example
On 8 April 2024 millions watched a total solar eclipse turn day to twilight for a few minutes. In India, a lunar eclipse ("Chandra Grahan") is safe to watch with the naked eye, but a solar eclipse must never be viewed directly.
Test Yourself
In a solar eclipse, which body is in the middle?
The Moon — it comes between the Sun and the Earth (at new moon).
In a lunar eclipse, which body is in the middle?
The Earth — it comes between the Sun and the Moon (at full moon), casting its shadow on the Moon.
Why isn't there an eclipse every month?
The Moon's orbit is tilted ~5°, so usually the three bodies do not line up exactly.
More Visual Lessons
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- The Solar System
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