Eclipses In astronomy the word eclipse is used to describe two different things: an eclipse of the sun or an eclipse of the moon. An eclipse of the sun is called a solar eclipse. It occurs when the moon passes directly in front of the sun. As seen from various points on the earth, the moon blocks out the sun (Solar Eclipse Explanation) (Solar Eclipse Captured)• Eclipses • In Astronomy the word “eclipse” is used to describe two different things: an eclipse of the sun or an eclipse of the moon. An eclipse of the sun is called a solar eclipse. It occurs when the moon passes directly in front of the sun. As seen from various points on the earth, the moon blocks out the sun. • (Solar Eclipse Explanation) (Solar Eclipse Captured)