On March 13th, a fascinating show awaits astronomy enthusiasts: a total lunar eclipse. Imagine the Moon, our faithful satellite, turning a reddish-orange hue, as if it were bathed in the light of sunsets around the world. This spectacular phenomenon, sometimes called the “blood moon,” results from a perfect alignment of the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun.
The mechanism of a lunar eclipse
During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth positions itself between the Sun and the Moon. The shadow of our planet then casts a red hue on the satellite, a unique and striking effect. This particular color comes from sunlight passing through the Earth’s atmosphere. Only the red wavelengths of the light spectrum are able to bypass the molecules of the atmosphere and reach the Moon. One can thus observe the refraction of solar light by our atmosphere as it propagates towards the Moon. It’s as if all the sunsets in the world were projected onto the satellite.
When and how to observe the eclipse?
The total lunar eclipse on March 13 will begin in the evening, in most time zones, and will continue until the early hours of the morning of March 14. The shadow of the Earth will start to envelop the Moon at 1:09 AM Eastern Time. At this point, you may notice a partial eclipse, resembling a part of the Moon being obscured. The total phase of the eclipse will begin around 2:26 AM Eastern Time. It is at this precise moment that the Moon will be fully immersed in the shadow of the Earth, and the intense red hue will become visible. Observing the eclipse is an opportunity not to be missed!
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Get ready to observe this spectacle
To fully enjoy this celestial show, you will need nothing more than your eyes! But for a more precise and detailed observation, feel free to use binoculars or a telescope. These will allow you to see the smallest details of the Moon, including craters that will take on a temporary red color. Don’t hesitate to use a tripod for photos.
If you wish to immortalize this moment, take photos with your smartphone. To obtain beautiful images, place your device on a tripod and set it for longer exposure times (several seconds). This will allow you to capture sharper and more detailed shots. Also, use observation accessories for a better experience.
The total lunar eclipse on March 13 will be the first in a series of three. Another total eclipse will occur in September, followed by a third one in March next year. Don’t hesitate to share your observations, photos, and videos on social media. This unique and rare spectacle should leave unforgettable memories for all observers. It will be a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty of our universe. This eclipse is a spectacular natural phenomenon.
