There are three main types of eclipses: solar, lunar, and penumbral. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light. This can be total, partial, or annular, depending on the alignment of the three bodies. A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. This can also be total or partial. A penumbral eclipse is a more subtle event where the Moon passes through the Earth's outer shadow, causing a slight shading on the Moon's surface.