There are three types of lunar eclipse: penumbral, umbral, and total. Click on the links to see an example of each.
A penumbral lunar eclipse happens when the moon passes only through the penumbra cast by Earth, where the sun's rays are only partly blocked. These are subtle and difficult to see.
An umbral lunar eclipse occurs when a portion of the moon passes through Earth's umbra. These are easy to see with the unaided eye, and visible in detail through binoculars.
A total lunar eclipse happens when the whole moon passes through the umbra cast by Earth.