Why this partial lunar eclipse is one you won’t want to miss
When most people hear the words “partial lunar eclipse,” they might often assume it will be less impressive than a total eclipse, and not really worth the effort to try and see it. But the Aug. 27-28 eclipse is anything but ordinary.
At maximum eclipse, 96.2% of the moon will be immersed in Earth’s umbra, the darkest part of our planet’s shadow. That means only a thin sliver of the lunar surface will remain directly illuminated by the sun, while the rest of the moon will take on a deep reddish-orange hue.
If you miss this one, you’ll have to wait until Dec. 31, 2028 for another lunar eclipse that rivals it in spectacle. So whether you’re planning on staying up late in the US or setting your alarms early in Europe, this is one skywatching show that’s well worth making time for!
1 week to go until the deepest partial lunar eclipse until 2028
We’re officially one week away from one of the best skywatching events of the year!
On the evening of Aug. 27 (for North America), or the early hours of Aug. 28 (for western Europe), Earth’s shadow will creep across the full moon during a very deep partial lunar eclipse. At maximum eclipse, 96.2% of the moon will be immersed in Earth’s dark central shadow.
The eclipse will be visible, at least in some part, from North and South America, Europe, Africa and parts of western Asia, weather permitting. Observers in the Americas are well-positioned for the best views while skywatchers across Europe will need to look toward the western horizon before sunrise as the eclipse reaches its peak.
Read more: A 96% partial lunar eclipse is just 1 week away: Here’s what you need to know.
