A spectacular sight will be on display for early-rising stargazers in the UK this week as a partial lunar eclipse is set to take place just before dawn on Friday. Earth’s shadow will be cast over the Moon, resulting in a dramatic spectacle for those with clear skies. Although the eclipse will only be partial in the UK, it promises to be a breathtaking event as the Moon darkens and transforms into a mesmerizing “blood moon.” The last total lunar eclipse visible in the UK occurred in 2022.
The penumbral phase of the eclipse, when the Moon first enters Earth’s outer shadow, is slated to begin at 03:57 on Friday. Following this, the partial eclipse will commence at 05:09 as the Moon moves into the darker section of Earth’s shadow. While the eclipse will reach its maximum at 06:58, viewers in the UK will be unable to witness this peak moment as the Moon will have already set below the horizon. However, regions such as North America, most of South America, and western Greenland will be treated to a total lunar eclipse.
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth aligns between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that covers the Moon’s surface. The different phases of a lunar eclipse include total, partial, and penumbral, each with distinct characteristics. Often referred to as a “blood moon,” a lunar eclipse can present the Moon in a deep red hue due to the scattering of sunlight in Earth’s atmosphere. This phenomenon, caused by Rayleigh scattering, allows longer red wavelengths of light to be visible during the eclipse.
To enjoy optimal viewing of the eclipse, it is recommended to find a clear and dark location with a good view of the western horizon. Bringing a light along for navigation is advised, with the use of a red torch to aid in adjusting to the darkness. Stargazers are encouraged to check the weather forecast and take advantage of the opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon, as the next lunar eclipse visible in the UK is not expected until 7 September 2025
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