Eclipses

During solar eclipses, astronomers can observe the corona of our Sun, the upper atmosphere of the Sun that is a million times fainter than the solar disk and the birthplace of the solar wind that our planet is immersed in.

During solar eclipses, we can learn about Earth鈥檚 atmosphere and how it responds to sudden changes in heating as the moon鈥檚 shadow block energy coming from the Sun.

During lunar eclipses, we can detect meteoroids impacting the moon and measure the thermal inertia of the lunar surface.

Explore our videos below:




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Eclipse Participatory Science

This episode explores how North America鈥檚 recent solar eclipses became powerful opportunities for scientific discovery through participatory science. The film follows two major projects: the , led by Montana State University, and , a NASA- and NSF-funded effort. Through student-led engineering, balloon launches, telescope observations, and real-world problem solving, participatory scientists gathered valuable atmospheric and solar data now being analyzed by researchers. The episode highlights how anyone with curiosity and passion can contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge science鈥攁nd invites viewers to get involved in future .

Eclipse Participatory Science

Cientificos Ciudadanos de Eclipses

Eclipse Participatory Resources & Activities

  • : Learn about how scientists study the Sun and analyze real data for yourself in this interactive lesson, which includes videos, activities, and a printable worksheet. Great for educators
  • : This lesson introduces the topic and importance of atmospheric gravity waves (AGW). Great for educators
  • : Identify atmospheric gravity waves for yourself! Great for solo learners
  • : In this lesson, learn the basics of high-altitude ballooning and recreate part of the process of building a balloon. Great for educators; materials required
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What Causes Eclipses?

What is an eclipse? Why do they happen? This edition of Science Through Shadows will dive into the mechanisms that cause an eclipse, address common misconceptions surrounding eclipses, and shed light on the differences between types of eclipses.

What Causes Eclipses?

Qu茅 es un eclipse?

Total Eclipse of the Sun

A total solar eclipse is one of nature鈥檚 most incredible events. On April 8th, 2024, observers across North America had the opportunity to experience this phenomenon. This video taught audience members what to expect on eclipse day, how to safely view the eclipse, and why it was worth it to travel to the path of totality!

Total Eclipse of the Sun

Eclipse total del sol

Ring of Fire

On October 14, 2023, individuals and communities across North America had the chance to see an annular solar eclipse. This type of eclipse is commonly referred to as a 鈥渞ing of fire鈥 eclipse and is different from a 鈥渢otal鈥 solar eclipse. This video outlines the differences between the two, discusses best practices for viewing the eclipse, and prepares audience members to have an amazing experience on eclipse day!

Ring of Fire

Eclipse del Anillo de Fuego

Eclipse Resources & Activities

  • : This guide from Dennis Schatz at the Pacific Science Center shows how to lead a Moon phase modeling activity. Learners will simulate solar and lunar eclipses to learn about their occurrence and why some are rare. Great for educators
  • : In this activity from the National Informal Stem Education Network (NISE), learners explore the concept of apparent size by using printable materials and looking at models of celestial bodies at different distances. Materials required
  • : Find supplementary eclipse-related educational activities in this list compiled by Andrew Fraknoi.
  • : Find additional eclipse guides and resources for teachers in the National Science Teachers Association (NSTS) eclipse page. Great for educators
  • : In this quick activity from Exploratorium, you and a partner can simulate an eclipse using only your thumb!听