Muscat: Stargazers in Oman and various regions around the globe will be treated to a remarkable astronomical spectacle on Sunday, as they can observe a total lunar eclipse.
The celestial event will commence with a penumbral eclipse at 7:28 p.m. Muscat time. This will be followed by the partial eclipse phase at 8:27 p.m., leading to the moment when the moon completely enters Earth’s shadow at 9:31 p.m.
The total eclipse will reach its maximum at 10:11 p.m. and will persist until 10:53 p.m., when the moon begins to emerge from Earth’s umbra. The partial phase will conclude at 11:56 p.m., with the penumbral eclipse finishing at 12:55 a.m. after midnight. Overall, the eclipse will span 5 hours and 27 minutes, with the full eclipse phase lasting 1 hour and 22 minutes.
This phenomenon, commonly referred to as a “Blood Moon,” occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, resulting in Earth’s shadow being cast on the Moon, giving it a deep red appearance. The sight of the “Blood Moon” has fascinated and frightened humanity for centuries.
Asia, including Oman, will offer the best viewing conditions, while the full eclipse will also be observable from the eastern edge of Africa and western Australia.
In contrast, Europe and most of Africa will only witness a partial view of the event early in the evening as the moon rises, while individuals in both the Americas will miss the full spectacle, unable to see this extraordinary celestial occurrence.
Why don't we witness total lunar eclipses every month?
Total lunar eclipses are not a monthly occurrence because the moon orbits the Earth with a tilt of 5 degrees. Although our natural satellite passes behind the planet approximately every four weeks, it maintains an angle that allows sunlight to reach it directly.
Lunar eclipses take place when the moon is full and positioned directly opposite the sun, with the Earth situated in between, obstructing the light's path.
These events can be observed from any location on Earth where it is nighttime. In contrast, solar eclipses are only visible from certain areas. Additionally, total lunar eclipses have a longer duration than total solar eclipses due to the larger shadow cast by the Earth compared to that of the moon.
What distinguishes a lunar eclipse from a solar eclipse?
Lunar and solar eclipses occur with similar frequency — roughly twice a year. Both phenomena are captivating. Some individuals, referred to as "eclipse chasers," travel globally to secure the best vantage points. Typically, solar eclipses attract larger audiences. We have all seen those sci-fi-like images of crowds gazing intently at the sky, equipped with futuristic protective eyewear (as one should never look directly at the sun).
Conversely, lunar eclipses tend to be less prominent in public interest. This may be attributed to the fact that they are only visible at night, a time when many people are either asleep or out at clubs.
However, total lunar eclipses are remarkable events due to their stunning effect on the moon, bathing it in a blood-red or orange hue. The best part is that no special eyewear is required to observe one. On a clear night, you can appreciate the spectacle with just your naked eye.
