Thursday night into early Friday morning this week, a total lunar eclipse will turn the moon into a red spectacle visible across much of the Western Hemisphere.
This astronomical event will be especially impressive for observers in North and South America, while some regions of Africa and Europe could see a partial view, depending on local conditions.
What is it and why does the moon turn red?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that partially or completely obscures our natural satellite. In a total lunar eclipse, the moon is completely covered and takes on a reddish hue. Known as a "blood moon," this color is due to sunlight filtering through Earth's atmosphere, scattering red and orange hues onto the lunar surface.
According to the POTEclipses occur four to seven times a year. The last partial lunar eclipse in the Americas was last September, and the last total eclipse occurred in 2022.
How and when to observe the eclipse?
The event will be visible starting at 2:26 am (Eastern Time) Friday and peaking around 3:00 am You don't need special glasses, just go outside and look up at the sky.
Europe and Africa could still see the total lunar eclipse, although it will be much more difficult. Michael Faison, an astronomy expert at Yale University, noted that “this is really an eclipse for the Americas.”
Missing out? There will be more opportunities.
If you can't see it this time, don't worry. The next lunar eclipse is scheduled for September 7, visible in parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe. For residents of the Americas, the next opportunity will come in March 2026.
Eclipses are an excellent opportunity to marvel at celestial events and reflect on our position in the cosmos. So make a hot beverage, find a clear spot, and enjoy this cosmic dance that turns the moon red.
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