RALEIGH (WTVD) -- Get set for an epic astronomical event Sunday night and early Monday morning. Most people in the US, including us here in central North Carolina, will be treated to a total lunar eclipse!
That's when the full moon enters the earth's shadow.
During the lunar eclipse, a full moon's bright appearance will change. As the moon enters the Earth's shadow, all of the moon will turn a rusty color, depending on atmospheric conditions.
This lunar eclipse is going to be a special treat for several reasons. First, it's long -- eclipse totality will last one hour and two minutes. Second, it's occurring fairly early. The eclipse begins at 10:34 Sunday evening.
The eclipse will also be occurring as the moon is high in the sky. At mid-totality, the moon will be about 75 degrees up from the southern horizon in central North Carolina. The last time we could gaze so high at a totally eclipsed moon was in 1797 when John Adams was president. The next opportunity won't come until 2113.
This event is being called a super blood wolf moon because several different astronomical events are happening at once. Bottom line: this is going to be one awesome show!
If you want to watch the lunar eclipse with a group, the Morehead Planetarium in Chapel Hill is welcoming the public to meet at the sundial in front of the building at 10:30 Sunday night.
Here's the timing for the event:
- Partial eclipse begins: 10:34 p.m.
- Totality begins: 11:41 p.m.
- Totality ends: 12:43 a.m. Monday
- Partial eclipse ends: 1:48 a.m. Monday
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As of Friday, we expect to have clear skies Sunday evening in time to view this celestial treat!
