Eclipse: The Rare Alignment of Celestial Bodies | Investor's Almanac

An eclipse occurs when one celestial body moves into the shadow of another, either by blocking sunlight or reflecting it. The most common types of eclipses are solar and lunar, with the former occurring when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, and the latter when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon. The first recorded eclipse dates back to 2134 BCE in ancient China, with a solar eclipse being documented on an oracle bone. Eclipses have been a subject of fascination and fear throughout history, with many cultures believing they signify significant events or omens. According to NASA, the longest solar eclipse of the 21st century occurred on July 11, 2010, lasting 5 minutes and 20 seconds. With a Vibe score of 80, eclipses continue to captivate people worldwide, inspiring scientific inquiry, cultural reflection, and a deeper understanding of our place in the universe.