Total Lunar Eclipse

Night watchers across Ireland will be treated to a total lunar eclipse tonight, weather permitting of course, beginning at around 10pm. Moon gazers are likely to see the moon turn a deep rich red colour, as the Earth's shadow blocks the sun's rays from striking the moon. Total lunar eclipse's occur only when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned exactly, or at least closely, with the Earth in the middle. Hence, there is always a full moon the night of a lunar eclipse. This will be the last total lunar eclipse for four years so let's hope for fine weather when the moon rises from the south east tonight. Ireland will experience the eclipsed moon for around an hour and may well rise already in eclipse. What is for sure is that it sure to be a wonderful site. If you take a photo of tonight's eclipse, why not send it our way?

Suggested Pupil Activity: Find out what is the difference between a lunar eclipse and a solar eclipse? Here's a good place to start.