What causes a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light either partially or completely. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely obscures the Sun, casting a shadow on Earth. This alignment only happens during a new moon phase, when the Sun and Moon are in direct alignment. Solar eclipses are rare events because the Moon’s orbit is slightly tilted relative to Earth’s, meaning the three bodies do not always align perfectly during every new moon.