Astronomy enthusiasts and sky-watchers have an exciting event to look forward to this month, with a lunar eclipse, known as Chandra Grahan, set to take place tomorrow that is September 18, 2024. This celestial phenomenon will mark the second lunar eclipse of the year and is expected to captivate viewers across various regions of the world.
The lunar eclipse is not only a captivating astronomical phenomenon but also an event steeped in cultural and religious meaning.Whether observed through the lens of science or spirituality, the Chandra Grahan serves as a reminder of our deep connection to the universe. For many, it is an opportunity to reflect on both the wonders of the cosmos and the age-old traditions that continue to shape our understanding of such events.

What is a lunar eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth’s shadow to be cast upon the Moon. The type of lunar eclipse—whether it is total or partial—depends on the alignment of these celestial bodies.
During a partial lunar eclipse, only a portion of the Moon enters the Earth’s shadow, which can give the Moon a reddish tint, a phenomenon often referred to as the “Blood Moon.” NASA explains that during a partial lunar eclipse, the Earth’s shadow grows and then recedes without completely covering the Moon.

Lunar eclipse timings on September 18, 2024

The Chandra Grahan on September 18, 2024, will occur according to Indian Standard Time (IST). Here are the key timings for the eclipse’s various phases:

Is the lunar eclipse visible from India?

Unfortunately, the upcoming lunar eclipse will not be visible in India. This is because, during the event, the Moon will be below the horizon, making it impossible to observe from the region. However, even though the eclipse won’t be physically observable, it still holds great importance for people in India due to its religious and cultural significance.

Where to watch the lunar eclipse 2024

The lunar eclipse will be visible across numerous regions globally. If you are in North America, Europe, Africa, or South America, you’ll have a clear view of the event. Be sure to check the local timings for each region to optimise your viewing experience.

How to watch the lunar eclipse 2024

Is it safe to watch a lunar eclipse with the naked eye?

Yes, it is completely safe to observe a lunar eclipse without any eye protection. Unlike a solar eclipse, the Moon doesn’t produce its own light but simply reflects sunlight. Even during a total lunar eclipse, the Moon’s brightness is not intense enough to harm your eyes.
While you can safely enjoy a lunar eclipse with the naked eye, it’s important to remember that looking directly at the Sun during a solar eclipse is dangerous, as the Sun’s intense light can cause permanent eye damage.

Lunar eclipse 2024 online live streams

Although the Super Harvest Moon Lunar Eclipse will not be visible directly from India due to its timing, you can still experience it through online live streams. Major space and astronomy platforms, including NASA and ESA, will broadcast the eclipse live, allowing you to watch the event in real-time from home.

Duration of the eclipse

The duration of lunar eclipses can vary depending on the type of eclipse and the alignment of the Sun, Earth, and Moon. A total lunar eclipse, for instance, can last up to three hours and 40 minutes from the beginning of the penumbral phase to the end. However, the period of totality (when the Moon is entirely in the Earth’s shadow) typically lasts between 30 minutes to over an hour. Partial lunar eclipses, like the one on September 18, are shorter in comparison. The eclipse on this date will last for just over four hours, from the start of the penumbral phase to the end.

Types of lunar eclipse

During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon enters the Earth’s central shadow, called the umbra. Although most sunlight is blocked, some light passes through Earth’s atmosphere and faintly illuminates the Moon’s surface. Shorter wavelengths of light, such as blue and violet, scatter more easily, while longer wavelengths like red and orange pass through. As a result, the Moon takes on a reddish or orange hue during the eclipse. The appearance becomes even redder if Earth’s atmosphere contains more dust or clouds.

In a partial lunar eclipse, the alignment between the Sun, Earth, and Moon is not perfect, so only part of the Moon passes through Earth’s umbra. The shadow moves across the Moon’s surface, but it never fully covers the Moon.

A penumbral eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through the faint outer part of Earth’s shadow, known as the penumbra. The dimming effect is so slight that it can be difficult to notice unless you’re aware it’s happening.

Why doesn’t a lunar eclipse happen every month?

A lunar eclipse happens when the Moon moves into the Earth’s shadow, much like a solar eclipse occurs when part of the Earth moves into the Moon’s shadow.
So why don’t eclipses happen every month? This is because the Moon’s orbit around the Earth is tilted compared to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun. Given that, why do eclipses occur at all? The Moon’s orbital tilt stays constant relative to the stars throughout the year, but changes relative to the Sun. About twice a year, this alignment causes the Moon to pass through the Earth’s shadow, resulting in a lunar eclipse.
When the Moon enters the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow, known as the umbra, it darkens significantly. Once it is fully inside the umbra, the Moon takes on a reddish hue due to sunlight being scattered by the Earth’s atmosphere.
If you were standing on the surface of the Moon during this time, you would witness the Sun setting behind the Earth, casting a warm red light over the landscape. From Earth, you’ll have to stay up late to observe this unique event, where the Moon takes on a rare appearance and you briefly glimpse the Earth’s long shadow.
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