Solar eclipses, when the moon passes between the sun and Earth and blocks solar rays, have had a major impact on global events, from wars to scientific breakthroughs. Here are a few instances in which the astronomical phenomenon has had an impact on world events. " " A marble panel on the main cathedral in Florence, Italy, depicts the mysterious figure Gionitus, perhaps an astronomer, perhaps an embodiment of astronomy itself. PHAS/UIG/Getty Images Solar eclipses, when the moon passes between the sun and Earth and blocks solar rays, have had a major impact on global events, from wars to scientific breakthroughs. Here are a few instances in which the astronomical phenomenon has had an impact on world events.