A partial penumbral lunar eclipse is set to occur on Saturday, October 28, 2023. This lunar eclipse is the second and last one of the year, following the solar eclipse that took place on October 14.
The eclipse will be visible in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, North America, North/East South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Arctic, and Antarctica. In Pakistan, the lunar eclipse will start at 11:02 PM local time, peak at 01:14 AM, and end at 03:26 AM on October 29.
Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth positions itself between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon’s surface. During a lunar eclipse, the Earth’s shadow can be seen moving across the Moon, causing changes in its appearance. These celestial events only happen during a full moon and are always captivating for skywatchers.
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There are three types of lunar eclipses depending on how the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned at the time of the event. The three types are:
- Total Lunar Eclipse: This is when Earth’s shadow completely covers the lunar surface, resulting in a total eclipse.
- Partial Lunar Eclipse: In this case, only a portion of the Moon enters Earth’s shadow, which can make it look like a “bite” has been taken out of the lunar surface.
- Penumbral Lunar Eclipse: During a penumbral eclipse, the faint outer part of Earth’s shadow is cast across the lunar surface. This type of eclipse is subtler and can be harder to detect.
Lunar eclipses offer an excellent opportunity for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to observe a unique celestial phenomenon. The changing appearance of the Moon as it passes through Earth’s shadow is a fascinating spectacle in the night sky. If you’re in a region where the lunar eclipse will be visible, it’s a great chance to enjoy this awe-inspiring event.
