What is a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes between the Sun and Moon and casts a shadow on the Moon.
How it works and key principles
Conditions and stages: It can occur near full Moon when the Moon is close to the plane of Earth’s orbit. The Moon may enter the penumbra and then the umbra, producing penumbral, partial or total phases. It does not occur at every full Moon because the lunar orbit is tilted.
Evidence, examples and limits
Appearance and safety: During totality the Moon may appear reddish because sunlight filtered and refracted through Earth’s atmosphere reaches it. A lunar eclipse is safe to view directly. Visibility depends on the Moon being above the local horizon and on weather.
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