What is a Total Lunar Eclipse? The Weather Authority breaks it down

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A unique phenomenon is happening Thursday night, as a total lunar eclipse will be seen in the Southwest Florida skies.

The Weather Authority will cover the total eclipse, explaining why it occurs and what makes it a worthwhile sight.

Meteorologist Zach Maloch said, “The eclipse happens as the moon passes through the earth’s shadow. This is a rarity because the moon does not usually pass through that shadow.”

In addition, the blue light scattered from the Earth’s atmosphere will give the moon a red hue once it reaches its maximum eclipse.

The timeline for the total lunar eclipse is as follows:

  • Outer shadow- 11:57 p.m., Thursday
  • Partial eclipse- 1:09 a.m., Friday
  • Total eclipse- 2:26 a.m., Friday
  • Maximum eclipse- 2:58 a.m., Friday
  • Total eclipse ends- 3:31 a.m., Friday
  • Partial eclipse ends- 4:47 a.m., Friday

The next total lunar eclipse will be on June 26, 2029. Maloch suggests that if you want to witness the maximum eclipse, set your alarm clock for 2:58 a.m. to get a quick glimpse at this remarkable occurrence.

Those concerned with cloud coverage can be relieved to know that conditions to view the event will be ideal in Southwest Florida as early Friday morning will have clear skies.



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