By Vivek Dubey
CNBC-TV18.com
Published Sept 18, 2024
The umbra is the darkest part of Earth's shadow. During a partial lunar eclipse, only part of the Moon moves through this region, causing visible darkening.
The penumbra is the lighter outer shadow cast by Earth. The Moon's surface may appear dimmer when it enters this shadow, especially in a penumbral eclipse.
In a partial lunar eclipse, Earth blocks part of the sunlight, causing only a portion of the Moon to move into the umbra. The Moon’s surface partially darkens.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the entire Moon enters Earth's umbra, completely blocking sunlight. The Moon appears fully darkened in this alignment.
A supermoon eclipse occurs during a total lunar eclipse when the Moon is closest to Earth. It looks larger and slightly brighter, earning the "supermoon" name.
In a penumbral lunar eclipse, the Moon passes entirely through Earth's penumbra. The change is subtle, only affecting the Moon’s brightness, not its colour.
During a total eclipse, Earth's atmosphere filters out most colours of light except red. This light reaches the Moon, causing it to appear reddish.
As sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, shorter wavelengths like green and violet scatter. Only red wavelengths reach the Moon, giving it a red glow.