Science News

Just in time for the fall season, the moon will treat us to its most
famous trick: changing from bright white to reddish as it passes deeply
through Earth's shadow.

This will be the last total lunar eclipse until March 3, 2007, and the
last eclipse that will be easily viewed throughout the entire continental
U.S. until February 21, 2008.

The eclipse will begin at 10:23 PM and last until 11:45 PM.

What is a lunar eclipse?
Lunar eclipses take place when the moon passes through the shadow of the
earth. A total eclipse occurs if the entire moon passes through the
earth's shadow. A partial eclipse occurs if only part of the moon passes
through the shadow. A total lunar eclipse may last up to 1 hour 40
minutes. A lunar eclipse may be seen by most of the people on the night
side of the earth. There is no danger in viewing a lunar eclipse.

The moon does not become completely dark during most lunar eclipses. In
many cases, it becomes reddish. The earth's atmosphere bends part of the
sun's light around the earth and toward the moon. This light is red
because the atmosphere scatters the other colors present in sunlight in
greater amounts than it does red.

Unlike solar eclipses, a lunar eclipse is safe to look at with the naked
eye—no special filters or glasses are required to block out harmful rays
of light. Astronomers suggest looking at the moon through binoculars and
telescopes to enhance the colors.

The only thing that is critical for viewing a lunar eclipse is a view
unobstructed by tall buildings, trees, or mountains.