A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light either partially or completely. This alignment can only happen during a new moon phase, and the type of eclipse depends on the distance of the Moon from the Earth and its position in relation to the Sun. There are three main types of solar eclipses: total, partial, and annular. In a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun, casting a shadow on the Earth. A partial solar eclipse happens when only a part of the Sun is obscured, while an annular eclipse occurs when the Moon is too far from the Earth to cover the Sun entirely, resulting in a ring-like appearance.