On the early morning of March 3, residents of the Coachella Valley will have a rare opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse, a celestial event in which the sun, Earth, and moon align so that the moon passes completely into Earth’s shadow, reports Baltimore Chronicle via Rancho Mirage Observatory.
The eclipse begins when the moon enters the penumbra, the lighter outer portion of Earth’s shadow, at approximately 12:45 a.m., a phase that may be difficult to detect with the naked eye. By around 1:50 a.m., observers will notice the partial eclipse stage, as a distinct line of shadow progressively moves across the lunar surface. As the event advances, the moon will gradually acquire a subdued red hue. Full immersion into the umbra, the darkest segment of Earth’s shadow, will occur near 3 a.m., marking the start of totality, which will conclude shortly after 4 a.m.
Eric McLaughlin, an astronomer at Rancho Mirage Observatory, highlights a notable celestial event each month, providing insights into its timing and viewing conditions. The observatory is open to the public for tours and stargazing, and more information is available at ranchomiragelibrary.org/observatory.
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