The science of a solar eclipse Total solar eclipse to occur over
northeastern Australia A total solar eclipse occurred over the
northeastern Australian coast early in the morning of November
14 local time. Clueless about this spectacular astronomical
event? No worries, we've got you covered. We're here to explain
what causes this remarkable act of nature, what skygazers see
and how those outside of Australia can join in the experience.
What exactly is a total solar eclipse? A solar eclipse happens
when the moon, as it orbits Earth, passes directly in front of
the sun, obscuring its rays and casting a shadow on Earth's
surface. Sometimes referred to as a "happy accident of nature,"
a total solar eclipse occurs when the moon is perfectly aligned
with both the sun and Earth, so it appears from our perspective
that the sun is completely blocked. When is this happening and
who can see it? The total solar eclipse became visible in the
far north of Australia about an hour after sunrise local time on
November 14 (aft