On the night of August 27-28, a partial lunar eclipse will be visible across the United States. This eclipse follows a total solar eclipse seen in Iceland, Spain, and a portion of Portugal about two weeks prior. The upcoming partial eclipse will be significant, with 93% coverage at its peak.
Lunar eclipses occur when the moon passes through Earth’s shadow, known as its umbra, after moving through the outer, dimmer shadow called the penumbra. The penumbral phase is challenging to observe with the naked eye due to its faintness.
Most regions in Canada will witness the entire eclipse duration, with Western Canada already observing the partial eclipse as the moon rises.
Unlike solar eclipses, protective eyewear is unnecessary to view lunar eclipses, making it a safe event to watch. Furthermore, lunar eclipses unfold over hours, unlike the brief duration of solar eclipses.
The eclipse will commence as the moon enters Earth’s penumbra around 10 p.m. ET, but the visible phase starts at 10:33 p.m. ET on August 27, concluding at 1:52 a.m. on August 28. The deepest part of the eclipse, where most of the moon darkens, will occur at 12:13 a.m.
The event is one of several astronomical occurrences this month, according to Elaina Hyde, director of the Allan I. Carswell Observatory at York University. She highlights the previous partial solar eclipse on August 12, the Perseids meteor shower, and the Jupiter-Mercury conjunction as notable events.
While it will not be a “blood moon” due to its partial nature, parts of Canada may witness a reddish hue during the eclipse. Lunar eclipses offer a spectacle that can be enjoyed without any special equipment, although binoculars, a small telescope, or a camera with a good night mode can enhance the viewing experience.
