Get ready for a celestial spectacle! Mark your calendars for 7 September as the Moon puts on a breathtaking show you and your little ones won't want to miss.
On 7 September, a magnificent total lunar eclipse will grace our skies, a unique opportunity for families to share in the wonders of the universe. To help you and your children make the most of this spectacular event, here are the essential details and practical tips you need to prepare for an unforgettable night.
What is a Lunar Eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when our planet, Earth, perfectly aligns itself between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow upon the Moon's face. Unlike a solar eclipse, where the Moon blocks the Sun's light, this is an opportunity for Earth to take centre stage. There are different types of lunar eclipses, but the one we are about to see is a total lunar eclipse.
The Total Lunar Eclipse
During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon fully enters the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, known as the 'umbra'. This is when the Moon can appear to have a beautiful reddish or orange glow. This is often referred to as a ‘blood moon’ and is a result of sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere. The upcoming celestial event on 7 September will be a total lunar eclipse, offering a truly stunning sight.
Key Details and What to Expect
The total lunar eclipse will be a gradual but dramatic transformation. The event begins at 11:28 pm on 7 September and will conclude at 4:55 am on 8 September. The Moon's brightness will gradually dim before taking on its rich, reddish hue during the maximum eclipse (the ‘blood moon’), which will occur from 1:30 am to 2:52 am.
This event is a rare and striking spectacle. The last total lunar eclipse visible from Singapore was in November 2022, making this the first one in nearly three years that can be observed locally.
Viewing the Eclipse in Singapore
One of the most wonderful things about this event is that no special equipment is required; the total lunar eclipse will be visible to the naked eye. Since the Moon will be overhead, it can be viewed from almost anywhere in Singapore.
However, it is advisable to check the weather forecast for clear skies, as frequent cloud cover can affect visibility.
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This is a fantastic opportunity for young parents to introduce their children to the wonders of the night sky. So, find a clear spot and enjoy this remarkable astronomical show with your family!
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*Information from The Observatory at Science Centre Singapore, images are for illustration purposes only.Â
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