For the first time since 2022, skywatchers across North America will witness a striking celestial event. On the night of March 13 into March 14, a total lunar eclipse will transform the moon into a stunning shade of red. This phenomenon, known popularly as the “Blood Moon,” occurs when the moon moves completely into Earth’s darkest shadow, the umbra.
The eclipse will reach its peak at exactly 2:26 a.m. EST and last until 3:31 a.m. For observers in other time zones, this event will happen slightly earlier—beginning at 1:26 a.m. Central, 12:26 a.m. Mountain, and 11:26 p.m. (March 13) Pacific. The event will be visible throughout the Americas and partially in other parts of the world, making this a widely anticipated event.
Why does the Moon turn Red?
A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the moon. But why red? During the eclipse, sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, scattering the shorter blue and green wavelengths. The longer, red wavelengths travel onward, painting the moon in various shades of red or copper. This is similar to the red skies we see at sunset.
The exact color of this eclipse will depend on the atmosphere’s conditions at the time. A cleaner atmosphere will result in a brighter, coppery moon. If there’s dust, smoke, or volcanic ash, the moon might appear a darker shade of red.
When and Where to View the Eclipse
Capturing this lunar eclipse is easier than you might think. Simply step outside and choose a location with a clear, open view of the night sky. Unlike solar eclipses, you don’t need special glasses to safely watch it.
According to TimeandDate, about 40% of the world’s population will be able to see at least some part of this eclipse. Here’s exactly when the moon will be fully covered by Earth’s shadow (totality):
- Eastern (EST): 2:26 a.m. – 3:31 a.m., March 14
- Central (CT): 1:26 a.m. – 2:31 a.m. (March 14)
- Mountain Time (MT): 12:26 a.m. – 1:31 a.m. (March 14)
- Pacific Time (PT): 11:26 p.m. (March 13) – 12:31 a.m. (March 14)
Skywatchers in South America, as well as parts of Europe and New Zealand, will see the eclipse during moonrise or moonset, offering unique views from these regions.
What’s the Impact of a Lunar Eclipse?
While lunar eclipses are common, total lunar eclipses like this one are much rarer. The previous total eclipse visible in North America was back in 2022. This rarity brings many skywatchers outdoors, sometimes in the thousands, creating community gatherings across towns and cities.
For photographers and artists, it’s a prime opportunity to capture remarkable images, sparking new interest in space and science.
How to Capture the Best Photo?
Lunar eclipses provide exciting opportunities for photography. The changing colors and shadows on the moon offer fantastic visual moments. Capturing a great photo doesn’t require expensive equipment—a smartphone with a tripod can produce impressive results.
If you’re interested in taking photos, lower your camera’s exposure settings to capture details without overexposing the moon’s bright surface. Binoculars or a telescope can also enhance the viewing experience, allowing for a closer look at the moon’s dramatic color changes.
Don’t Miss this Once-in-a-While Event!
The Blood Moon eclipse is not just a stunning visual event; it also connects people around the world through shared awe and curiosity. Will this eclipse be as bright and coppery as predicted, or could unexpected atmospheric conditions change the moon’s color completely?
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