Key Difference Between Solar and Lunar Eclipse

7

Orange Lightning

Here are the 7 key differences between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.

1

Cause

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth. While a lunar eclipse occurs when Earth is between the Sun and the Moon.

2

Frequency

On average, there are one to two solar eclipses per year, while lunar eclipses can happen two to five times a year.

3

Visibility

A solar eclipse can only be seen from a specific path on Earth, while a lunar eclipse, on the other hand, can be seen from anywhere on Earth.

Duration

A total solar eclipse can only last for a few minutes at most, while a total lunar eclipse can last for several hours.

5

Safety

It is never safe to look directly at the Sun during a solar eclipse. A lunar eclipse is safe to view with the naked eye.

6

Moon Phase

A solar eclipse can only occur during a new moon phase while a lunar eclipse can only occur during a full moon phase.

7

Appearance

During a total solar eclipse, the Sun's bright light is completely blocked out by the Moon. While the Moon does not disappear completely during lunar eclipse.