Penumbral eclipse begins: 10:29 p.m. MST
Partial (umbral) eclipse begins: 11:32 p.m. MST
Total eclipse begins: 12:40 a.m. MST
Mid-eclipse: 1:18 a.m. MST
Total eclipse ends: 1:53 a.m. MST
Partial (umbral) eclipse ends: 3:01 a.m. MST
Penumbral eclipse ends: 4:04 a.m. MST
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon travels directly through the Earth's shadow in space and only occurs when we have the right alignment between the Sun, Earth and Moon. During the total eclipse portion, the Moon will completely enter the Earth's dark (umbral) shadow making the Moon take on a dark red or rusty appearance. Although no direct sunlight is reaching the Moon during the umbral eclipse, the Moon will illuminate when a small amount of long wavelength (red) sunlight bends through the Earth's thin atmosphere. After the total lunar eclipse ends, the Moon will pass through the penumbral shadow, where it will appear slightly darkened.
Viewing a lunar eclipse does not require special filters or optical instruments. It is entirely safe to watch, unlike a solar eclipse. Telescopes and binoculars will give you a better view by showing greater detail on the Moon but are also not necessary to view a lunar eclipse.
For individuals wanting a closer look at the eclipse and other celestial bodies, telescopes will be available at the TELUS World of Science's Observatory in Coronation Park courtesy of TELUS World of Science and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (Edmonton Centre). The Observatory will open at 10:00 p.m. Monday night until 3:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. Admission for the event is free of charge.
The Observatory will not open on December 20 if there is cloud cover. This event is weather dependant.
Next total lunar eclipses visible to Albertans:
December 10, 2011 Albertans will only see the end of this eclipse.
April 14/15, 2014 Albertans will see the total lunar eclipse from start to finish.
