All of the Americas to Experience a Spectacular Lunar Event
So, what exactly is a Super Blood Moon? It’s the combination of two lunar events: a total lunar eclipse and a supermoon. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth and Moon line up perfectly causing a shadow to fall on the Moon, which results in a completely red, dim Moon. A supermoon refers to when the Moon reaches the closest distance in its orbit to Earth.
Dr. Morgan Rehnberg, Director of Scientific Presentation for the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, explains, “Lunar eclipses aren’t just beautiful – they’re reminders of how interconnected the natural world is. If the Sun, Earth and Moon weren’t lined up just right, we wouldn’t see a thing.”
While lunar eclipses are relatively common, this Super Blood Moon is special because it will be visible across all of the North and South American continents. This has not happened since 2000 and won’t happen again until 2058.
You’ll have to stay up late to catch this Pan-American Super Blood Moon. The total eclipse will peak on Sunday, January 20 at 11:12 PM (CST). Want to learn more about this lunar event? Tune in to the Museum’s Facebook on Friday, January 18 at 4:30 PM for a Facebook live with Dr. Rehnberg or contact the Museum to schedule an interview with Dr. Rehnberg.
The Museum was established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by its rich collections, the Museum is dedicated to lifelong learning. It engages guests through creative, vibrant programs and exhibits interpreting science and the history of Texas and the Southwest. For more information, visit www.fortworthmuseum.org.
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