* Lunar eclipses require a full moon. This is because a lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. For this to happen, the Moon must be on the opposite side of the Earth from the Sun, which is the definition of a full moon.
* Solar eclipses require a new moon. During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking the Sun's light. This can only happen when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, which is the definition of a new moon.
So, while lunar eclipses can only happen during a full moon, solar eclipses can only happen during a new moon.
