There are five stages in a total solar eclipse: Partial eclipse begins (1st contact): The Moon becomes visible over the Sun's disk. It looks like the Moon has taken a bite out of the Sun. Total eclipse begins (2nd contact): The Moon covers the entire disk of the Sun. Observers in the Moon's umbral path may be able to see the diamond ring effect and Baily's beads just before totality. Totality and maximum eclipse: The Moon completely covers the disk of the Sun. Only the Sun's
