Solar Eclipses and Lunar Eclipses

What's the difference between a Solar Eclipse and a Lunar Eclipse?

By Tarot.com Staff

Eclipses are pretty major events, especially in Astrology. But not everyone understands the difference between a Solar Eclipse and a Lunar Eclipse -- not to mention how they affect your life! So let's start with the basic science: A Solar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, and a Lunar Eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Moon and the Sun.

Reveal how the lunar cycles will impact YOU over the next 12 months »

Solar Eclipses

With a Solar Eclipse, which can only happen at the New Moon, the Moon moves between Earth and the Sun, either fully or partially blocking the Sun from our view on Earth, for a matter of minutes. In Astrology, the darkness associated with a Solar Eclipse also casts a shadow on our lives. Solar Eclipses -- because they happen at the New Moon -- are about taking care of unfinished personal business, getting honest with yourself, and planting seeds for the future.

Reveal how the lunar cycles will impact YOU over the next 12 months »

Lunar Eclipses

With a Lunar Eclipse, which can only occur at a Full Moon, the shadow of the Earth is cast on the Moon. This happens when the Sun and the Moon are opposite each other, with the Earth passing between, blocking the light of the Sun from reaching the Moon. During a Lunar Eclipse, which can last a few hours, the Moon will appear slightly orange or red. Just like its softer visual appearance, the Lunar Eclipse has a softer astrological effect on us, too. A Lunar Eclipse is a bit less intense. It's about letting go of the past -- old fears, habits, situations, and feelings -- so you can feel light enough to move forward.

Both Solar and Lunar Eclipses are potent events that can spur major personal growth. Every year, there will be at least four eclipses -- two Solar and two Lunar -- but, while very rare, there can be as many as seven eclipses in a single year!

Reveal how the lunar cycles will impact YOU over the next 12 months »