A solar eclipse is an amazing natural phenomenon that is rare and exciting. the moon orbits the earth and the earth orbits the sun. Occasionally during these orbits the moon blocks out part of the sun causing a “solar eclipse”.  If the sun is not completely blocked it is called a partial eclipse. Sometimes the sun is almost completely covered, leaving only a ring called an annulus around the edge. This is called an annualar eclipse. If the sun is completely blocked it is called a total eclipse. In ancient times people believed an eclipse was a sign from the gods that they were angry with the people. Ever year there are 2 solar eclipses but only parts of the earth can see them. It is possible for there to be 5 eclipses in 1 year. the longest solar eclipse was 7.5 minutes.