March is synonymous with change, with the arrival of spring and daylight saving time, but also with astronomical phenomena. From March 13 to 14, a total lunar eclipse will take place, only visible if the weather permits.
A total lunar eclipse, also known as a ‘blood moon’, occurs when the Sun, the Earth and the Line align in such a way that the moon is plunged into the planet’s shadow. However, it doesn’t cease to be visible, but acquires a reddish and brownish hue.
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When is the total lunar eclipse due?
According to NASA, quoted by the Rádio Renascença (RR) website, the total lunar eclipse will begin at 5:10 am in Portugal, with the peak of the phenomenon scheduled for 6:58 am.
According to RR, which quotes the Portuguese Sea and Atmosphere Institute:
(…) it is unlikely to be visible to the naked eye“.
Where else does this phenomenon occur?
Portugal is not the only place exposed to the ‘blood moon’. In fact, the phenomenon will be visible in other parts of the globe, such as the Pacific, America, western Europe and western Africa.
How to observe it?
As we’ve already explained, viewing the eclipse with the naked eye depends largely on the weather conditions.
Even so, it’s worth pointing out that, unlike a solar eclipse, you don’t need to take any extra precautions, such as using devices with the right filters.
By the way, if you want to follow the ‘blood moon’ closely, you can do so via a live broadcast on Space.com.
When are there the most eclipses?
According to National Geographic, four eclipses are planned this year, including the aforementioned one on March 14. So, if you want to keep up to date, make a note in your diary of the upcoming phenomena:
- Partial solar eclipse, on March 29
- Total lunar eclipse, on September 7th
- Partial solar eclipse on September 21st.