Astronomy enthusiasts are in for an exhilarating experience this March as the full moon, commonly referred to as the Worm Moon, will take on a stunning red hue during a total lunar eclipse. This celestial event is scheduled to occur on the night of March 13, or early on March 14, depending on your time zone, according to NASA. The eclipse will be visible across the Western Hemisphere, providing a perfect opportunity for stargazers to witness this magnificent spectacle.
But what exactly is a lunar eclipse? A lunar eclipse occurs when the sun, Earth, and moon align in such a way that the moon passes into the Earth's shadow. During a total lunar eclipse like the one happening this March, the entire moon will fall within the darkest part of Earth's shadow, making it a remarkable sight. It's important to note that each lunar eclipse is visible from half of the Earth. There are also other types of eclipses, such as partial and penumbral eclipses, which occur when the celestial bodies are not perfectly aligned.
One of the most fascinating aspects of a total lunar eclipse is how the moon appears to glow with a red-orange hue. This phenomenon, often referred to as a blood moon, occurs when the moon is in Earth's shadow. According to NASA, the moon gets its reddish color because any sunlight that isn't blocked by the Earth is filtered through a thick layer of Earth's atmosphere before reaching the moon's surface. The presence of dust or clouds in the atmosphere during the eclipse can intensify the red color, creating a breathtaking visual effect. It’s as if all the world’s sunrises and sunsets are being projected onto the moon, as described in a NASA blog post.
March's full moon is affectionately known as the Worm Moon, a name that likely originated from the earthworms that emerge as spring approaches, as noted by the Old Farmer's Almanac. Some historical accounts suggest that the name dates back to the 1760s, referring to worms or beetle larvae that become visible as the trees thaw from winter. There are several other names for March's full moon that reflect the transition from winter to spring. The first day of spring will be on March 20, just days after the Worm Moon. Other names include the Eagle Moon, Goose Moon, Crow Comes Back Moon, Sugar Moon, Wind Strong Moon, and Sore Eyes Moon.
In addition to the enchanting lunar eclipse, viewers may also be treated to a rare moonbow if the weather cooperates. This phenomenon, similar to a rainbow but created by moonlight instead of sunlight, can occur if there is light rain during the full moon. Moonbows are most visible when the full moon is relatively low in the sky, making them particularly spectacular in the hours after sunset.
Furthermore, on the night of the total lunar eclipse, astronomy fans should keep an eye on the western sky for a chance to spot Jupiter and Mars. With the diminished glow of the moon, constellations may also become easier to observe, enhancing the overall experience of this remarkable night.
