Central Idea

While Eclipses are intriguing, one might wonder why eclipses do not occur with every new and full moon.

What are Eclipses?

Eclipses are astronomical events that occur when the sun, moon, and Earth align in specific ways.
There are two primary types of eclipses: solar and lunar.
A solar eclipse happens when the moon comes between the sun and Earth during a new moon, blocking out the sun’s light.
Conversely, a lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is positioned between the sun and the moon during a full moon, casting a shadow on the moon.

What are Eclipses?

Ans. Moon’s Unique Orbit

Moon’s Path: The moon orbits around Earth, completing one orbit roughly every month.
Ecliptic Plane: In an ideal scenario, if the moon’s orbit matched Earth’s orbital plane, called the ecliptic, we would witness a solar eclipse during every new moon and a lunar eclipse during every full moon.
Moon’s Inclination: However, the moon’s orbit is inclined at an angle of about 5 degrees to Earth’s orbital plane, causing irregular eclipse patterns.

Lunar Nodes: The moon’s orbit intersects Earth’s orbital plane at specific points known as nodes, categorized as ascending or descending nodes depending on the moon’s orbital direction.
Eclipse Occurrence: Eclipses happen when a full or new moon closely aligns with one of these nodes, ensuring the sun, moon, and Earth are in alignment.

Eclipse Pairs: Solar and lunar eclipses typically occur in pairs, with one following the other within a two-week period.
Eclipse Seasons: Eclipse seasons, lasting around 34 to 35 days, usually feature two eclipses – one solar and one lunar. Occasionally, three eclipses may occur in a single season.
Frequency: Contrary to common perception, there are more eclipses than expected, with the 21st century witnessing 224 solar eclipses and 230 lunar eclipses.

Eclipse Seasons: Eclipse seasons take place approximately every 173 days when the lunar nodes precisely align with the Earth and the sun.
Moon’s Progression: The moon’s phases shift about 30 degrees along the zodiac every month concerning the nodes.
Future Eclipses: After a pair of eclipses, the next pair usually occurs nearly 6 calendar months later.