It hasn’t been quite a year since we experienced the last total solar eclipse. But did you know it’s been nearly two-and-a-half years since our last total lunar eclipse? This refers to the time when the moon is passing into the Earth’s shadow. As a result, the Sun’s rays aren’t able to give the Moon its typical glow.
Videos by InspireMore
Instead, the Moon has an orange/red hue. The more dust and clouds there are in the Earth’s atmosphere, the redder it will look! Luckily, many of us will get the chance to view this beautiful celestial event on the night of Thursday, March 13. Learn more by checking out the video below!
@museumofscience The first total lunar eclipse since 2022 is coming to the night sky the night of Thursday, March 13th into the early morning of Friday, March 14th! 🌕 As the Moon moves into Earth’s shadow, it will glow a deep, eerie red. Don’t miss this breathtaking moment in the night sky. #Science #Moon #LunarEclipse #Astronomy #StarGazing ♬ original sound – Museum of Science
“It’s as if all the world’s sunrises and sunsets are projected onto the Moon,” NASA beautifully explains.
If the stars align (no pun intended), then the reddish Moon won’t be the only thing you can admire that night. If there’s some rain in your area, there could also be a rare moonbow. Basically, it’s like a rainbow that’s created with moonlight instead of sunlight.
Want to Check Out the First Total Lunar Eclipse in Years? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Want a better idea of when the total lunar eclipse will be visible in your area? The Old Farmer’s Almanac gives moonrise times based on ZIP codes in the United States. You can even look for details like a prediction for how clear the sky will be during that time.
No matter the exact time, you’ll want to look toward the western sky. Ideally, you’d find an area that is away from light pollution and trees. Equipment like telescopes and binoculars can make the view even more spectacular, but they’re certainly not required to appreciate the beauty of a total lunar eclipse. So, stay safe and have fun!
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here!
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.
