Eclipses occur when the Sun, Earth and Moon come into a particular alignment with each other at special times of either the New or Full Moon. A solar eclipse occurs at the New Moon phase, while a lunar eclipse can only take place at full moon. There are three types of eclipses – partial, total and annular. However, it very much depends upon where on the Earth’s surface the observer is situated as to whether or not he or she will be able to view the eclipse. Only those who happen to be directly within the path of the eclipse can witness it.

Effects

Once feared as harbingers of doom that foreshadowed the sudden demise of a ruler, the destruction of crops, the maddening of livestock, pestilence and war, eclipses still fill us with awe and wonder.

They are said to trigger change and foretell a critical turning point or challenges ahead.

In the case of the Sun, each hour of its eclipse is said to bring effects that last for one year. For the Moon, the ratio is one hour to one month.

The sign of the Zodiac in which the eclipse takes place will throw further light on events still to unfold. Taurus, for instance, is associated with property, Gemini with telecommunications and Aquarius with new inventions.