A total lunar eclipse — also known as a “blood moon” — will occur early Tuesday, allowing much of the United States to see the moon turn a reddish orange.
The “blood moon” occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that filters sunlight through Earth’s atmosphere, giving the moon a red color.
The eclipse will be visible in North and Central America as well as parts of Asia, Australia and the Pacific, according to NASA. Observers in Africa and Europe will not be able to see it.
For those in the Eastern U.S., prime viewing will occur between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m., with a partial viewing at about 9 a.m. NASA recommends using binoculars or a telescope for the best experience.
NASA reports the moon will appear in the constellation Leo under the lion’s hind paws while Venus and Saturn will appear close together on March 8.
The next total lunar eclipse will occur in 2028, NASA says.
• Juliet La Sala can be reached at jlasala@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.