What phenomenon occurs when the moon moves between the sun and Earth?

The phenomenon that occurs when the moon moves between the sun and Earth is known as a solar eclipse. During a solar eclipse, the moon completely or partially blocks the sun's light from reaching Earth, creating a shadow on the planet's surface. This can result in varying degrees of darkness during the day, depending on the type of solar eclipse: a total eclipse, where the sun is fully obscured, or a partial eclipse, where only a part of the sun is covered.

This alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth is a celestial event that demonstrates the dynamics of our solar system. The moon's orbit around Earth allows it to occasionally pass directly in front of the sun as seen from specific locations on Earth's surface. Solar eclipses can only occur during a new moon phase when the moon is positioned directly between the sun and Earth, making it a unique and striking astronomical event.