Okay guys, this coming Sunday night, Jan. 20th, there will be a total lunar eclipse visible from our area. This means the Moon will be totally within the Earth's shadow for approx. an hour. During that time the Moon will be quite dark, with various shades of red, orange, copper, and possibly blue being exhibited. At present, the weather forecast for the B/CS area is favorable for clear skies. Fingers crossed!
The initial partial phase begins for us at 9:33PM. This phase will barely have any effect on the Moon visibly to start with. It will gradually darken, but will likely not be noticeable until closer to the total phase. Shortly before totality, there can be some dramatic lighting effects, so I wouldn't discount this phase completely.
Totality begins at 10:41PM, and lasts until 11:43PM. This is the most appealing phase, with a variety of colors and shading present. The Moon can become quite dark during this phase, and can be somewhat difficult to locate in the sky, especially if lots of distracting lights are in the vicinity. A viewing site away from city lights will be preferable.
After totality ends, another partial phase kicks in until 12:50AM on Monday morning.
Because of the timing of the event, the Moon will be high in the sky for us. Don't get a crick in your neck looking up!
This is from South College Station of the eclipse in 2014.
One from the eclipse of 2010.
For more detailed info on the upcoming eclipse, see here.
The initial partial phase begins for us at 9:33PM. This phase will barely have any effect on the Moon visibly to start with. It will gradually darken, but will likely not be noticeable until closer to the total phase. Shortly before totality, there can be some dramatic lighting effects, so I wouldn't discount this phase completely.
Totality begins at 10:41PM, and lasts until 11:43PM. This is the most appealing phase, with a variety of colors and shading present. The Moon can become quite dark during this phase, and can be somewhat difficult to locate in the sky, especially if lots of distracting lights are in the vicinity. A viewing site away from city lights will be preferable.
After totality ends, another partial phase kicks in until 12:50AM on Monday morning.
Because of the timing of the event, the Moon will be high in the sky for us. Don't get a crick in your neck looking up!
This is from South College Station of the eclipse in 2014.
One from the eclipse of 2010.
For more detailed info on the upcoming eclipse, see here.