A spectacular celestial event is set to captivate skywatchers this week as a full harvest supermoon aligns with a partial lunar eclipse, offering a unique viewing opportunity for observers across North America, South America, Africa, and Europe.
According to NBC News, the partial lunar eclipse will begin on Tuesday evening at 8:41 pm ET, as the Earth passes between the moon and the sun. This alignment will cause part of the moon's surface to be obscured by Earth's shadow, creating a dimming effect that will become more noticeable around 10:13 pm ET.
This supermoon has a really cool origin story! Check it out in the 49 second clip from Ben. pic.twitter.com/DVZ6XxjnCL
— WVLT Weather (@WVLTWeather) September 15, 2024
The eclipse will reach its peak at 10:44 pm ET, with approximately 8% of the moon's surface engulfed in full shadow. This occurrence will happen just minutes after the moon becomes full at 10:35 pm ET.
Observers are advised that, unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses can be safely viewed with the naked eye without the need for protective eyewear. The celestial show will continue as the moon exits Earth's shadow, with the event concluding early Wednesday at approximately 12:47 am ET.
NASA explains that September's full moon is known as the harvest moon due to its association with harvest time in the Northern Hemisphere. Adding to the event's significance, this particular full moon qualifies as a supermoon, occurring when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical 27-day orbit.
"When a full moon happens to coincide with its closest approach to Earth, it appears slightly bigger and brighter than the average full moon," a NASA spokesperson said. "This is why it's referred to as a 'supermoon'."
This rare combination of a harvest supermoon and a partial lunar eclipse provides an excellent opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike to witness a remarkable natural phenomenon. Weather permitting, viewers across the designated regions should be able to enjoy this celestial spectacle, marking a highlight in this year's astronomical calendar.
