Australians are set to have the best views of a full lunar eclipse, and won't need any special equipment to enjoy it.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Early risers on Monday, September 8, will be treated to the extraordinary sight of the moon turning red, also known as a 'blood moon', due to the eclipse.
Observational astronomer, Dr Sarah Caddy, said it will be worth waking up for.
"I find them (lunar eclipse) to be really incredible, particularly when you get a full eclipse like this," Dr Caddy said.
"It really is quite special."
Western Australia will get the best eclipse view; however, the east coast view will still be excellent.
From 1:30am the moon will start to get a bit darker, by 4am the full moon will shine a bright red colour.
Dr Caddy said the eclipse will be low and close to the horizon.
Unlike a solar eclipse, astromoner, Dr Laura Driessen, said this eclipse won't require any viewing equipment.
"Total lunar eclipses are great because you don't need any special equipment to enjoy the spectacle," Dr Driessen said.
"Everyone in Australia with clear skies will be able to see the best parts of this total lunar eclipse."
The name blood moon comes from the colour the moon turns, but Dr Caddy said the reason why is quite special.
"What's happening is that all of the collective sunrises and sunsets all around the world that light is being projected onto the surface of the moon," Dr Caddy said.
William Stanley
William is a journalist at the Warrnambool Standard. Reach out with news or updates to william.stanley@warrnamboolstandard.com.au
