There are three types of solar eclipses:

• Total - the entire central portion of the sun is blocked out.


• Partial - only a part of the sun's surface is blocked out.


• Annular - only a small, ring-like sliver of light is seen from the sun's disc.

The moon's shadow has a central region (umbra) and an outer region (penumbra). If the umbra passes over you, the entire central portion of the sun will be blocked out, and you will see a total solar eclipse. If the penumbra passes over you, you will see a partial solar eclipse.