'Had to get up early to see this one. The top image was shot with high exposure, so the Moon actually looks like the Sun here. However, the image shows the contrast between the rest of the Moon and the incoming shadow. The next images were further along in the eclipse, so the photographic exposure was reduced. A lunar 'sea' is clearly seen in one image. The bottom image is the last one taken. The camera's exposure was increased again, so that the remaining direct sunlight on the Moon looked like a sliver.


Above: Lunar eclipse of December 10, 2011 seen from southern California, U.S.A.
Total eclipse was around 6 a.m. PST
(top picture earlier, bottom picture later.)
          Photo: Copyright 2011, scenebank.com

Definition: A Total Lunar Eclipse is when the Earth passes between the Moon and Sun, temporarily casting a shadow on the entire Moon.