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Interactive visualisation of solar and lunar eclipses
This simulation is educational – it illustrates geometric principles, not precise Besselian elements.
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight. Because the Moon's orbit is tilted ~5° to the ecliptic, this only happens at specific New Moon moments when the Moon crosses the ecliptic plane – near Rahu (north node) or Ketu (south node).
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon. This only happens at Full Moon when the Moon is near a node. The Moon turns copper-red during totality because Earth's atmosphere bends red sunlight into the umbra – the same reason sunsets are red.
In Vedic astrology, eclipses mark the mythological battle between the demon Svarbhānu (who became Rahu and Ketu after being sliced by Vishnu's discus) and the Sun/Moon. Eclipses occurring near natal planets – especially the Sun, Moon, or lagna lord – are considered powerful transit triggers.
The Sutak period begins 12 hours before a solar eclipse and 9 hours before a lunar eclipse. During this time, traditional observances advise fasting, prayer, and avoiding auspicious activities. Eclipse effects in the birth chart are judged by the house and sign where the eclipse falls.
Rahu causes solar eclipses at ascending nodes; Ketu causes them at descending nodes. Rahu eclipses are considered more externally visible (material upheaval), while Ketu eclipses point inward (spiritual transformation).