Witness the Breathtaking 'Blood Moon' Total Lunar Eclipse This Week!
Have you ever seen the moon turn a deep, mesmerizing shade of red? Well, mark your calendars because a spectacular celestial event is about to unfold! On the night of March 13 into the early hours of March 14, North America will be treated to a breathtaking total lunar eclipse, commonly known as the 'Blood Moon.'
As the Full Worm Moon passes through Earth's shadow, it will transform into a stunning reddish hue for approximately 65 minutes. This phenomenon occurs due to the refraction of sunlight through Earth’s atmosphere, much like the way our skies light up in brilliant oranges and reds during a sunset. It’s a truly remarkable sight that skywatchers won’t want to miss!
The name 'Worm Moon' comes from early Native American and European traditions, referring to the time of year when earthworms begin emerging from the thawing soil—a sign that spring is just around the corner. But this year, this full moon carries an extra special treat: a total eclipse visible across much of North America, making it the best lunar eclipse for the continent until 2029!
Here are the key times for totality across different time zones:
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Eastern Time (EST): 2:26 a.m. - 3:31 a.m. (March 14)
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Central Time (CST): 1:26 a.m. - 2:31 a.m. (March 14)
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Mountain Time (MST): 12:26 a.m. - 1:31 a.m. (March 14)
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Pacific Time (PST): 11:26 p.m. (March 13) - 12:31 a.m. (March 14)
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Alaska Time (AKST): 10:26 p.m. - 11:31 p.m. (March 13)
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Hawaii Time (HST): 8:26 p.m. - 9:31 p.m. (March 13)
If you’re in North America, you won’t need any special equipment to enjoy this incredible event. Just find a comfortable spot with a clear view of the sky and watch as the moon gradually darkens and then glows red. For the best experience, try to escape city lights to fully appreciate the moon’s eerie glow against the dark sky.
But don’t stop there! The night sky has more in store this month. Just two weeks after this lunar eclipse, a solar eclipse will occur on March 29, favoring parts of Atlantic Canada and Quebec. While not visible everywhere, it will be a fascinating event for those in the right locations.
One important safety note: while lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye, solar eclipses require proper eye protection. If you plan on watching the upcoming solar eclipse, make sure to use eclipse glasses or a #14 welder’s glass to prevent eye damage.
So, set your alarms, bundle up if needed, and prepare to witness one of the most stunning astronomical events of the decade. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a casual observer, this Blood Moon is a sight that will leave you in awe.
Clear skies and happy viewing!
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