The night of March 13, the night sky will be dyed red and will offer a unique astronomical show: a total lunar eclipse, the first one that can be observed from the earth from 2022.
According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), A lunar eclipse occurs when the sun, the earth and the moon are aligned in such a way that the moon passes through the shadow projected by the Earth.
In a total lunar eclipse, The moon is completely within the darkest area of this shadow, known as umbra. Being in this region, the natural satellite acquires a reddish hue, which has led these events to be commonly called blood moons. This phenomenon is the result of the dispersion of sunlight through the Earth’s atmosphere.
Unlike solar eclipses, which require specific conditions for observation, Total lunar eclipses can be appreciated from anywhere on the planet’s night side.
Will the eclipse be visible in Guatemala?
The Eleonora Poitevin engineerPresident of the Guatemalan Association of Astronomy (AGA), confirms that This astronomical phenomenon will be visible in the country from 9:57 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, when the moon will enter the gloom. Its maximum point can be observed at 0.59 hours on Friday, March 14.
Unlike solar eclipses, special glasses will not be needed to enjoy the event, although the use of binoculars or telescopes can improve the experience.
For approximately 65 minutes, the Moon will acquire a reddish or copper tone. However, climatic conditions, such as cloudiness, could affect visibility in some regions.
Poitevin adds that this astronomical event can be observed with the naked eye. However, some institutions, such as The Miraflores Museum, They offer an exclusive experience in which attendees can see the lunar eclipse with telescopes and will be accompanied by AGA astronomers.
What are the phases of the lunar eclipse?
The total lunar eclipse will go through several stages, each with an approximate duration of 65 minutes.
The event will begin with the penumbral eclipse, when the moon enters the soil of the earth and begins to darken.
Then the partial eclipse will be given way, at which time the moon will begin to become reddish when entering the earth’s umbra.
The most anticipated phase, the totality, will happen when the moon is completely inside the umbra, showing its maximum splendor in reddish tones.
Finally, the process will be invested with a new partial and penumbral eclipse, until the moon recovers its usual brightness.