As the Sun sets today, skywatchers across India are in for a breathtaking treat.
A total lunar eclipse that will paint the Moon in shades of rusty red is about to occur later today. This celestial spectacle, often called a Blood Moon, occurs when Earth slips between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow and creating a dramatic show visible to the naked eye.
Unlike solar eclipses, this one is completely safe to watch without any special gear, making it perfect for families and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
This is the first total lunar eclipse of the year, and India is positioned to catch the latter stages as the Moon rises in the evening.
A lunar eclipse happens when the Moon moves into Earth’s shadow. During totality, sunlight filters through our planet’s atmosphere, scattering blue light and leaving behind a reddish glow.
This particular eclipse has a magnitude of 1.155, promising a deep, vivid red hue that could last over an hour.
HOW TO WATCH THE LUNAR ECLIPSE?
Timing is key for this event.
The partial phase of the eclipse kicks off at 3:20 pm Indian Standard Time (IST), with totality beginning at 4:34 pm and peaking around 5:21 pm in places like New Delhi, lasting until about 6:23 pm.
However, visibility will depend on your location.
Eastern cities like Kolkata and Guwahati will see more of the total phase as the Moon rises earlier, while western areas might catch only the end. But the eclipse will be visible across most of the country after sunset, with the Moon appearing low on the horizon.
The first step would be to check the local moonrise times for respective cities and regions.
For Delhi, it’s around 6:00 pm, so head out just before dusk.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE ECLIPSE?
Leading up to the total lunar eclipse, preparation is going to be straightforward and fun.
First, scout a spot with a clear eastern horizon, ideally away from city lights, like a rooftop, park, or hilltop.
You can also download apps like SkySafari or Stellarium to track the Moon’s path. If you have binoculars or a telescope, they will enhance details like craters during the red phase. But remember, no equipment is needed; your eyes are good enough.
Before leaving your house, it will be good to check the weather forecasts, as clear skies are ideal for this hour-long show.
The rare event is also completely safe to peer at.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar ones won’t harm your eyes. You can stare directly or even snap photos with your phone. Just avoid myths like the need to fast or hide indoors. Traditional observances like the Sutak period, starting around 6:20 am, are cultural, but scientifically, it is all well beyond safe. So no safety tips are needed.
If there are any tips, they are about how to turn the cosmic event into a celebration.
Gather friends to hang out under the stars, or host a live-stream watching party. Capture the moment with time-lapse photos, or record long videos.
This eclipse coincides with Holi, adding a unique touch to an already festive mood around the nation. As the Moon bleeds, it is important to remember that this is a chance to connect with the universe and create lasting memories.
