Science & Nature
Total Lunar Eclipse Set to Thrill Chicagoans Tuesday Morning. Here’s the Timing
Different phases of a lunar eclipse. During a total lunar eclipse, the moon can appear blood red. (joningall / iStock)
Sometimes it pays to be a morning person.
Early risers will enjoy views of a total lunar eclipse in the pre-dawn hours on Tuesday.
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes directly between the sun and moon, casting a shadow on the moon. It only happens during a full moon.
Most of North America will witness at least a partial eclipse; Chicagoans are in prime position to catch the total eclipse, when the entire moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow.
Skywatching tip: While lunar eclipses are generally readily visible even in urban areas, and no special equipment is required, the moon will be fairly low in the sky as the eclipse progresses, so people will need a clear view to the west.
Here’s the timing on the morning of March 3 (all times are Central time zone):
— 2:44 a.m., the moon enters the the outer part of Earth’s shadow, called the penumbra. The effect during this phase is a subtle dimming.
— 3:50 a.m., the partial eclipse begins as the moon enters the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. It will look like bigger and bigger bites are being taken out of the moon.
— 5:04 a.m., totality begins, with the entire moon now in the umbra. The moon often appears red or orange during totality, earning the nickname “blood moon.”
— 6:02 a.m., totality ends and the process begins reversing as the moon gradually emerges first from the umbra and then the penumbra.
The moon will set in Chicago before the final phases of the eclipse are complete, but as long as cloud cover cooperates, people should be able to observe the most dramatic moments.
Contact Patty Wetli: [email protected]
