T-MINUS ONE WEEK: total lunar eclipse

 
T-MINUS ONE WEEK: For those that don't know, the United States will be treated to a total lunar eclipse exactly one week from tonight (next Thursday night-Friday morning). Not everyone on planet Earth will get to see the show. The United States happens to be squarely within the corridor where the entirety of the eclipse will be visible.
If you've never seen a lunar eclipse before, it's quite a unique treat. Earth produces two shadows, the penumbra & umbra. Think of the penumbra as the lighter outer edge & the umbra as the darker inner core. As the Moon enters the penumbra (edge), it will begin to darken. This is often difficult to notice with the human eye. Once the Moon enters the umbra (core), however, the show really begins. This deeper shadow allows the Moon to turn a blood red color. This is the most striking part of the event & give the Moon a color not otherwise normally seen.
While the U.S. gets to enjoy prime viewing, this is only relevant if sky conditions cooperate. Be sure to check your local forecast next Thursday night and root for clear skies!

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