Lunar Eclipse to Dazzle Skywatchers on September 18

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth, Moon, and Sun align in a straight line, with the Earth in the middle. The Earth's shadow falls on the Moon, causing it to appear dark or reddish in color. Lunar eclipses can only occur during a full moon, and they are relatively common, happening about twice a year.

When and Where to See the Eclipse

The next lunar eclipse will occur on September 18, 2023. It will be visible in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. The eclipse will begin at 9:04 p.m. EDT and reach its peak at 12:07 a.m. EDT. The total eclipse will last for about 1 hour and 25 minutes.

What to Expect During the Eclipse

During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon will turn a deep red color. This is because the only light that reaches the Moon is refracted through the Earth's atmosphere. The shorter blue wavelengths of light are scattered away, leaving only the longer red wavelengths to reach the Moon.

The Moon may also appear to be slightly distorted during the eclipse. This is because the Earth's shadow is not perfectly round. The Moon's movement through the shadow can also cause it to appear to wobble or shake.

Other Interesting Facts About Lunar Eclipses

• Lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye.
• The Moon's color during a lunar eclipse can vary from red to brown to orange.
• Lunar eclipses are often referred to as "blood moons."
• The next total lunar eclipse will occur on March 14, 2025.

Conclusion

The upcoming lunar eclipse on September 18 is a rare and beautiful event that is sure to captivate skywatchers around the world. Whether you are an experienced astronomer or a casual observer, be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to witness this celestial spectacle.