The Phenomenon of Solar Eclipses

When a solar eclipse occurs, the moon aligns precisely in front of the sun, creating a unique experience known as totality. During this alignment, the sun's rays are blocked entirely, leading to a momentary darkness even during the day. This event allows for observations of the sun's corona, its outer atmosphere, which is typically not visible due to the sun's brightness. Scientists like Shadia Habal study eclipses to better understand phenomena like solar storms and the corona's extreme heat.