Yahoo News Rare lunar eclipse happening tonight in UK - best time to watch
The UK is set to witness a breath-taking partial lunar eclipse tonight (September 17). This celestial spectacle occurs when the Earth's shadow partially obscures the moon, creating a sight that's worth losing sleep over.
The visibility of a partial lunar eclipse largely depends on your geographical location, with the most spectacular views typically seen where the moon is high in the sky during the eclipse. Fortunately for those residing in the west, they're in for a treat with an excellent view of the partial eclipse tonight and into the early hours of Wednesday, September 18.
As this rare event unfolds, stargazers and night sky enthusiasts will want to ensure they have the best possible vantage point. To help you make the most of this lunar event, the experts at Giants Causeway Tour have put together some top tips that will guide you to the perfect spot and ensure you don't miss a moment of the action.
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What exactly is a partial lunar eclipse?
A partial lunar eclipse happens when the Earth moves between the sun and the moon, but they are not perfectly aligned. As a result, only part of the moon passes through the Earth's umbra, the central and darkest part of its shadow.
The remainder of the moon stays in the 'penumbra', the lighter outer part of the shadow, meaning it is still fully illuminated by the sun. During a partial lunar eclipse, the shadowed part of the moon appears darkened, while the rest remains bright.
A total lunar eclipse, where the entire moon enters the Earth's umbra and often takes on a reddish hue, is different from a partial eclipse which only darkens part of the moon's surface, creating a striking visual contrast.
When can you catch a glimpse of this partial eclipse?
The eclipse will be visible across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Arctic, and Antarctica. The timings vary depending on your location, but here's when you can see it in the UK.
The partial eclipse will be at its most visible on Wednesday between the hours of 1.41am and 5.47am. For the best view of the eclipse, find a dark spot and aim to watch the spectacle between 3.12am and 4.15am, with the maximum eclipse appearing at 3.44am across the UK.
Expert tips for viewing the partial eclipse:
Knowing when the lunar eclipse will occur is important, but also plan other things like travel, securing a good spot well in advance, and figuring out how you're going to get home. You should aim to view the eclipse between 3.12am and 4.15am, but if you're planning to try to get a good viewing spot you may want to arrive even earlier to secure your space.
You might be fortunate enough to get a decent view from your home. However, residential areas are often plagued by light pollution, which can hinder the best views.
The UK is teeming with excellent spots for moon observation. To find one, seek out an area with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the horizon, free from buildings and trees.
While the partial lunar eclipse can be seen with the naked eye, using binoculars or a small telescope can enhance your viewing experience. These tools can help you see more details of the lunar surface and the Earth's shadow moving across it.
For those who enjoy photography, a lunar eclipse offers a fantastic opportunity for some stunning photos. Use a camera with a telephoto lens or even a smartphone with a good zoom feature.
A tripod is essential for steady shots, especially in low light.
In typical British fashion, it's not unusual for clouds or rain to disrupt the view, so keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to the eclipse. Cloud cover can obstruct your view of the moon, so if the forecast predicts clouds or rain, consider having a backup plan, such as a location with less light pollution or travelling to a nearby area with a clearer sky.
Evenings can become chilly, so remember to bring extra layers, and a blanket or a comfortable chair to sit on. A thermos of hot drink can also make the experience more enjoyable, especially if you're planning to watch for an extended period.
