Though there may be clouds, a deep partial eclipse of the moon should be visible here in Maryland starting Thursday night. The eclipse will begin slowly around 10:30 p.m. and reach its fullest shadow just after midnight on Friday morning.
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse can be safely seen with the naked eye. Experts recommend a telescope for a better view. The best places to observe the event are away from lights. An open field or outdoor sports area may offer a good view.
The heavenly display will block 96.3% of the moon with the Earth’s shadow.
As NASA describes it, “…the umbra’s dramatic effect is easily visible as it takes an increasingly large bite out of the disk of the full Moon. Less than an hour later, the part of the Moon still in sunlight will be small enough for observers’ eyes to adapt to darkness and perceive the coppery color of the part of the Moon within the umbra.”
A total eclipse of the moon will occur next on Dec. 31, 2028 to ring in a new year.
Watch a simulation of this month’s eclipse here.
