By Maro · Egypt Planners · Last updated: June 2026 · Eclipse data: NASA
Solar Eclipse Glossary
Totality -- the period when the Moon fully covers the Sun and the corona becomes visible. Umbra -- the Moon's darkest shadow where totality is experienced. Penumbra -- the lighter outer shadow where a partial eclipse is seen. Corona -- the Sun's outer atmosphere, visible only during totality. Diamond Ring -- the last flash of sunlight before totality. Baily's Beads -- points of light through lunar valleys at the limb. First Contact (C1) -- partial eclipse begins. Second Contact (C2) -- totality begins. Third Contact (C3) -- totality ends. Fourth Contact (C4) -- partial eclipse ends. Path of Totality -- the ground track of the umbra. Centreline -- the line along the centre of the path where totality is longest.