Skywatchers from coast to coast can look up Thursday night for a spectacular celestial display. A near‑total lunar eclipse, in which Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, will blanket more than 96% of the Moon in Earth’s shadow. The event, often called a “blood moon” because the Moon takes on a reddish‑orange hue, begins at 9:23 p.m. Eastern Time and peaks at 12:12 a.m. ET.
Timing and visibility
The eclipse will start when the Moon first enters the outer penumbral shadow at 9:23 p.m. ET. The most dramatic phase begins at 10:33 p.m. ET, when the darker umbral shadow begins to bite into the lunar disk. At the peak, 96.2% of the Moon’s surface will be hidden, creating a deep, copper‑colored glow that lasts until the Moon exits the penumbra at 3:01 a.m. ET.
Most of the continental United States, as well as much of Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, will be able to see the entire sequence. Viewers in Alaska and the far northern reaches of Canada may miss the early stages, while those in Europe and Africa will see the eclipse begin early Friday morning, with the Moon setting before the event concludes.
How to watch safely
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse can be observed safely with the naked eye. For a more detailed view, binoculars or a small telescope will reveal the subtle shading and the striking color change as Earth’s atmosphere scatters sunlight onto the Moon’s surface.
Local astronomy clubs and planetariums often host viewing parties, providing telescopes and expert commentary. Check community calendars or social media groups for any scheduled gatherings in your area.
Why it happens
A lunar eclipse occurs during the full‑moon phase, when the Moon is on the opposite side of Earth from the Sun. Earth’s atmosphere bends and filters sunlight, allowing only red wavelengths to reach the Moon, which creates the characteristic “blood moon” appearance.
This eclipse follows a total solar eclipse that lit up skies over southern Europe, Spain, Portugal, Greenland, Iceland and northern Russia two weeks earlier. Solar and lunar eclipses often come in pairs because of the geometry of the Earth‑Moon‑Sun system.
What’s next?
The next solar eclipse will occur on February 6, 2027, visible from parts of South America and Africa. A subsequent lunar eclipse is expected overnight February 20‑21, 2027, with visibility across most of the globe, including North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and Antarctica, according to NASA.
Whether you are an avid astronomer or simply enjoy a night‑time sky show, Thursday’s near‑total lunar eclipse offers a free, family‑friendly opportunity to witness one of nature’s most awe‑inspiring events.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
