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Celestial Phenomenon: The Eclipse Moment

Stargazing enthusiasts can witness a unique celestial event this Sunday at dusk: A lunar eclipse, where the entire moon will turn a deep red, taking place only moments after the sun sets.

A unique astronomical event unfolds: the eclipse
A unique astronomical event unfolds: the eclipse

Celestial Phenomenon: The Eclipse Moment

Prepare for a celestial spectacle this Sunday evening as a total lunar eclipse, also known as a "blood moon," will grace the skies of Germany.

The event will begin with the moon moving into the Earth's shadow, gradually dimming and taking on a reddish hue. This phase, known as the total lunar eclipse, will commence around 20:30 and last until just before 21:00. During this time, the moon will appear as a striking "blood moon" at the horizon.

As the eclipse progresses, the moon will be harder to spot due to its dark phase rising at dusk. It will first become visible in the east and will slowly move towards the south. For optimal viewing, a clear horizon in the east is advantageous.

The further west one is in Germany, the later the moon will rise during the eclipse. For instance, in Trier, the moon will rise at 20:01, while in Mainz, it will rise at 19:54.

If you don't have a telescope or binoculars, visiting an observatory or an astronomy club might be a good alternative. In Rhineland-Palatinate, the Zweibrücken Observatory is hosting an event for the lunar eclipse, and in Baden-Württemberg, the Wertheim Observatory is offering similar opportunities. Visiting these venues for the lunar eclipse event could be beneficial.

According to astronomer Carolin Liefke, the moon will become visible only when it has risen a bit higher. A telescope or binoculars can help in viewing the moon during its early phase.

The blood moon will be visible for approximately an hour, making it a sight not to be missed. So, mark your calendars and head out to a location with a clear and unobstructed view of the southeast horizon, as the moon rises already fully eclipsed and very low in the sky. Avoiding trees or buildings blocking the view is important for better visibility.

This total lunar eclipse is a rare event, with the next one over Germany not occurring until three years from now, on December 31, 2028. Don't miss your chance to witness this stunning celestial event this Sunday evening.

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