First Lunar Event of its Kind in North America in 150 Years
So, what exactly is a Super Blue Blood Moon? It’s a convergence of three distinct lunar events: a lunar eclipse, which produces a blood moon, occurring with the second full moon of the month, also known as a blue moon. To cap it off, the eclipse will occur exactly at the same time the moon is closest to the Earth in its orbit, creating a supermoon.
“During a lunar eclipse, all direct light from the sun onto the moon is blocked by the Earth,” said Dr. Doug Roberts, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History Chief Technology Officer. “The remaining light that filters through our atmosphere is reddened, thus coining the name blood moon.” Dr. Roberts continues, “Although the moon won’t actually look noticeably larger or blue, this is still a great opportunity to get out and reconnect with our closest cosmic neighbor.”
Set your alarms early because the total lunar eclipse will begin at 6:51 AM (CST) on Wednesday morning, and don’t worry, unlike a solar eclipse, no special viewing devices are necessary to experience the lunar eclipse. Dr. Roberts elaborates, “Lunar eclipses are great events because they are easily and safety viewed by large numbers of people – basically, if the moon is above the horizon and weather permits, you just have to remember to get up at the right time to observe it.” Dr. Roberts suggests, “Get up between 5:48 AM and 7:27 AM on Wednesday morning, and look to the west to see the lunar eclipse. It will start as a partial eclipse and will move into a total lunar eclipse.”
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, a distinguished institution established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and proudly holds Affiliate status with the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by a diverse and enriching collection spanning science and history, the museum is committed to lifelong learning. Engaging visitors through vibrant programs and exhibits, it interprets the rich tapestry of Texas and the Southwest. The museum’s commitment to education is reflected in its innovative programs, designed to inspire and educate learners of all ages. From interactive workshops to immersive exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic environment for curiosity and intellectual growth. For more information about educational programs, exhibits, and events, visit www.fwmuseum.org.
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