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Deep Partial Lunar Eclipse to Turn Moon Red Over Italy

Atmospheric refraction of red sunlight into Earth's shadow produces the Moon's red color.

Overview

  • The eclipse begins with penumbral entry at 03:24, the visible partial phase at 04:34, and reaches maximum at about 06:13 when roughly 96.3% of the lunar disk will be in Earth's shadow.
  • The Moon will sit low in the western sky in the constellation Aquarius, so southern regions and islands such as Sardinia are best placed to see the peak.
  • Northern and eastern cities may lose the Moon at or before maximum because the final stages from about 07:52 to 09:02 coincide with moonset and the coming daylight.
  • The red or copper color appears because Earth's atmosphere scatters blue light and bends longer red and orange wavelengths into the shadow to illuminate the lunar surface.
  • Viewing is safe without eye protection, simple binoculars will enhance details, and observers should pick an elevated site with a clear western horizon to avoid obstructions.