Soltilskyndelse

Soltilskyndelse is a Danish term that translates to "sun coverage" or "solar obscuration." It refers to the phenomenon where a celestial body, such as the Moon or another planet, passes in front of the Sun, blocking a portion or all of its light. This event is also commonly known as a solar eclipse when the Moon is the obscuring body.

Solar eclipses occur when the Sun, Moon, and Earth align in a specific order. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon completely covers the Sun's disc, casting a shadow on Earth. During a total eclipse, the Sun's corona, its outer atmosphere, becomes visible. A partial solar eclipse occurs when only a portion of the Sun is obscured by the Moon. Annular solar eclipses happen when the Moon is farther away from Earth in its orbit, appearing smaller than the Sun and leaving a bright ring (annulus) visible around the Moon's silhouette.

Soltilskyndelse can also refer to transits of planets, such as Venus or Mercury, across the face of the Sun. These are less common than solar eclipses and appear as small dark dots moving across the Sun's disc. Observing soltilskyndelse requires specialized eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or solar filters, to prevent severe eye damage from the Sun's intense radiation. The study of these events has historically been important for understanding celestial mechanics and the properties of the Sun.