Get ready for a captivating celestial event as a partial lunar eclipse and a supermoon converge, creating a breathtaking display that will be visible across North and South America, as well as parts of Europe and Africa. Discover the fascinating science behind this astronomical phenomenon and how you can witness it with your own eyes.
Partial Lunar Eclipse The Celestial Alignment
Partial lunar eclipse: Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, but only veils part of the Moon’s face. It’s when our typically modest Moon performs a delicate dance so that it passes closer to Earth than usual, the result being our satellite becomes slightly bigger and much brighter in the night sky.
This casts the Earth’s shadow over part of the moon, making it appear as though a ‘bite’ has been removed from the lunar surface. This subtle but beautiful effect is a reflection of the simplicity of our solar system. This gradual darkening of the Moon, observed over several hours, is an unusual and beautiful opportunity to witness the intricate dance between our Earth, the Sun and our Moon.
SUPERMOON: Massive & Brighter
A partial lunar eclipse will be followed by the arrival of a supermoon a full moon that appears bigger and brighter than its usual size. When it is at or near its closest point to the Earth in its orbit it is known as perigee.
Supermoons can make the Moon appear up to 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than it normally does when full, which is quite mesmerizing. Its appearance is shaped by the closeness to Earth and consequently, changes in apparent size and brightness of the Moon.
Avid skygazers will be presented with a unique astronomical spectacle, capped off by the near-total lunar eclipse supermoon which has in no small way added to the mystery of what is sure to be an exciting evening. Somenight brighter than others, which will allow a view of the cosmos and how wonderful our natural environment is to be.
Conclusion
The partial lunar eclipse and supermoon coming next week are sure to captivate stargazers and amateur astronomers everywhere. With the right knowledge of the science behind it and if you are in the right position to see one, you will be struck by amazement when seconds turn into minutes. It is a must-see sight to behold and explore the magnificence of our universe so do not let this opportunity pass.
