September's Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse Will Be Visible To Billions This Weekend
Since lunar eclipses don't require any special protective eyewear like solar eclipses, the Blood Moon and its ilk are perfect for casual and seasoned stargazers alike. This time, the total phase of the eclipse is expected to last for 82 minutes, providing ample time for observation and Instagram posts.
What gives the Blood Moon its name is actually due a phenomenon of light and shadow. As the Sun's rays are bent and filtered by Earth's atmosphere, shorter wavelengths of light, like blue and violet, are scattered. This leaves the longer red and orange wavelengths to pass through and bathe the Moon in a red coppery glow. This natural process is the same one that creates the colors of a sunrise or sunset. Also, the intensity of the Blood Moon can vary, depending on atmospheric conditions such as dust, clouds, or volcanic ash, which can make the crimson color appear more vivid.
Unfortunately, sky-watchers in the Americas will mostly miss out on this particular show, as the eclipse will occur during their daytime hours when the Moon is below the horizon. That said, enthusiasts from around the world can tune into livestreams of the event, with organizations like The Virtual Telescope Project expected to broadcast the entire event live.
For those in the path of the eclipse, viewing is simple: find a location with a clear view of the night sky, away from city lights to minimize light pollution. While no special equipment is necessary, a pair of binoculars or a small telescope can provide a closer look at the Moon’s craters and surface details.
