Asset ID: 78402905 / Stocktrek / Solar eclipse As seen from the Earth , a solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, and the Moon fully or partially blocks the Sun. This can happen only during a new moon , when the Sun and the Moon are in conjunction as seen from Earth. In a total eclipse , the disk of the Sun is fully obscured by the Moon. In partial and annular eclipses only part of the Sun is obscured. At least two, and up to five, solar eclipses occur each year; no more than two can be total eclipses. Total solar eclipses are nevertheless rare at any particular location because totality exists only along a narrow path on the Earth's surface traced by the Moon's shadow or umbra . An eclipse is a natural phenomenon . Nevertheless, in ancient times, and in some cultures today, solar eclipses have been attributed to supernatural causes or regarded as bad omens . A total solar eclipse can be frightening to people who are unaware of their astronomical explanation, as the Sun seems to disappear during the day and the sky darkens in a matter of minutes. As it is dangerous to look directly at the Sun, observers should use special eye protection or indirect viewing techniques. People referred to as eclipse chasers or umbraphiles will travel to remote locations to observe or witness predicted central solar eclipses. This page is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, anyone associated with the topic.