Astronomers and skywatchers will have a special treat on November 19 as one will get to see the longest partial lunar eclipse of the century.
On November 19, Earth will pass between the Sun and Moon, creating a shadow on the Moon’s surface.
The near-total lunar eclipse will be at its peak just after 1:30 pm IST, when the Earth will hide 97% of the full moon from the Sun’s rays, said NASA.
During this spectacular celestial event, the moon will acquire a reddish hue. It will be visible in some parts of India.
Lunar eclipses are visible only in places where the Moon is above the horizon. Those in the northeastern states of India, including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, should be able to see the event.
People in North America will be best placed to witness the entire event. All 50 US states and Mexico will be able to see it. It will also be visible in Australia, East Asia, Northern Europe, and the Pacific Ocean region.
NASA said the lunar eclipse will last 3 hours, 28 minutes, and 23 seconds, which would be longer than any other eclipse in 100 years between 2001 and 2100. NASA said that Earth will witness a total of 228 lunar eclipses in the 21st century. Mostly, there will be two lunar eclipses in a month, but there can also be three eclipses.
There will be 20 total, partial and penumbral eclipses between 2021 and 2030. Those who won’t be able to see the celestial event from their homes can watch it on NASA’s live stream.