An eclipse occurs when one celestial body enters the shadow of another, creating a fascinating astronomical phenomenon based on the alignment of the Sun, Earth and Moon. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, while a lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon. Solar eclipses include total, partial and annular eclipses, while lunar eclipses may be total, partial or penumbral.
This article explains the types of eclipses, umbra and penumbra, eclipse seasons, the Saros Cycle, and the astronomical alignment behind eclipses. It also explores how eclipses have been interpreted across cultures, including the Hindu tradition of Rahu and Ketu, Chinese dragon mythology and Norse wolf mythology, while comparing scientific explanations with mythological and astrological interpretations.
Author: Darshita Neeraj
Senior Researcher,
Mudita Learning and Knowledge Private Limited
Email: info@muditabooks.com
Date of post: 13.08.2026
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