Heads Up: A Partial Lunar Eclipse Is Happening This Weekend

(SPOT.ph) The Philippines is set to witness a celestial event in the early morning of October 29, Sunday: a partial lunar eclipse. While it may not be as spectacular as a total lunar eclipse, it is still an exciting phenomenon to look forward to.

According to PAGASA's Astronomical Diary, the partial lunar eclipse will be visible in Manila and other parts of the Philippines for one hour and 19 minutes. The penumbral phase starts at 2 a.m., while the partial lunar eclipse begins at 3:35 a.m. Maximum eclipse is expected to be achieved at 4:14 a.m. The partial umbral phase lasts until 4:54 a.m., while the penumbral phase ends at 6:28 a.m. The final phase, however, is not visible anymore since the moon sets at 5:56 a.m.

What to know about a partial lunar eclipse:

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through Earth's shadow. This happens because the Moon orbits around the Earth and sometimes aligns with the shadow behind our planet. A total lunar eclipse is the most anticipated one. It occurs when the Moon fully immerses into Earth's umbra, turning its milky surface bloody red. A partial lunar eclipse, on the other hand, happens when only a portion of the Moon passes through the umbra.

How to watch a partial lunar eclipse:

To observe the partial lunar eclipse, you don't need any special equipment. Unlike a solar eclipse, lunar eclipses are safe to watch directly with your eyes. However, having tools like binoculars or telescopes can enhance the viewing experience by magnifying the magnificent Moon.

While enjoying the lunar eclipse, don't forget to look out for other celestial objects in the early morning sky. Jupiter will accompany the Moon during the eclipse, and the bright Venus will be on the opposite side of the sky.

Also read:
10 Places for Stargazing Near and Around Manila
10 Campsites In and Around Antipolo for Stargazing