The term 'eclipse type' refers to the two main types of eclipses: SOLAR and lunar. A SOLAR eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, blocking out the sun's light and casting a shadow on the Earth. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, blocking out the moon's light and casting a shadow on the moon. Both types of eclipses can be seen from Earth, but they occur at different times and have different effects.