Lunar eclipse • Eclipse

 Lunar Eclipse: A Celestial Event

A lunar eclipse is a celestial phenomenon that occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon's surface. This event happens only during a full moon when the three celestial bodies are precisely aligned. During a lunar eclipse, the Earth blocks the Sun's direct light from reaching the Moon, creating a shadow that falls on the Moon's surface.

There are three types of lunar eclipses: total, partial, and penumbral. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon is fully obscured by the Earth's shadow, while a partial lunar eclipse occurs when only a portion of the Moon passes through the Earth's shadow. A penumbral lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through the Earth's faint outer shadow, or penumbra, causing the Moon to appear slightly dimmed.

During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon often appears reddish or coppery in color, which is known as a "blood moon." This effect is due to the Earth's atmosphere bending and scattering the sunlight as it passes through the atmosphere and reaches the Moon, causing the red wavelengths to refract and illuminate the Moon.

Lunar eclipses are relatively common and occur around twice a year on average. They can be observed from anywhere on Earth where the Moon is visible during the eclipse. Lunar eclipses provide an opportunity for astronomers and skywatchers to observe this rare celestial event and learn more about the Moon and the Earth's position in space.