A Total Eclipse of The Moon

Tonight we will be able to see the last total lunar eclipse until December of 2010. It promises to be pretty spectacular, as during the eclipse, the Moon will be in Leo. Saturn and bright star Regulus are only 3 degrees east and west, respectively, of the Moon. Geminii, Orion, Taurus and other winter constellations will occupy the south and western sky for North American eclipse watchers. This amazing show should be visible over much of this planet, certainly over most of this country.

This NASA Eclipse Homepage is a great source of information about all aspects of the eclipse. It will explain everything you don't know about an eclipse, gives viewing time charts for all our timezones, and a beautiful chart of the path of the Moon through Earth's umbral and penumbral shadows during the eclipse.

A total lunar eclipse is an event that helps us Earthlings connect with our place in the grand scale of things, or as the NASA page puts it:

Although total eclipses of the Moon are of limited scientific value, they are remarkably beautiful events which do not require expensive equipment. They help to cultivate interest in science and astronomy in children and to provide a unique learning opportunity for families, students and teachers. To the nature lover and naturalist, the lunar eclipse can be appreciated and celebrated as an event which vividly illustrates our place among the planets in the solar system. The three dimensional reality of our universe comes alive in a graceful celestial ballet as the Moon swings through the Earth's shadow. Hope for clear skies, dress warmly and enjoy the show! (Photo from skyandtelescope.com)

Technorati Tags: Feb 20, NASA, total lunar eclipse

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