D̶o̶n̶’t̶ Do look up, GVL. We’re in store for a fully-visible super flower blood moon this Sun., May 15. What is that?
What to know
According to the Roper Mountain Science Center, a lunar eclipse “occurs when the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, and the Earth’s shadow is cast upon the moon.” In addition to it being the first total lunar eclipse of the year, this month’s full moon on Mon., May 16 will be a super moon — a full moon that’s at the closest point to Earth in its orbit. It’s called a flower moon because it coincides with spring flower growth.
What to look for
Look out for two features: Color + size. As direct sunlight is blocked from the moon during the total lunar eclipse, reflected sunlight from the earth’s atmosphere gives the moon a rusty red color (like blood). Plus, because it’s closest to the earth around this same time as the eclipse, it will appear “super,” or larger than usual.
When to look for it
The partial eclipse starts around 10:27 p.m. By 11:29 p.m., the moon will be completely red and the total eclipse will have started. The maximum eclipse (when the moon is closest to the center of its shadow) will be visible from 12:11-12:53 a.m.
Tips for the best view
Maggie Connelly, Planetarium Specialist at Roper Mountain Space Center, says you can view the super flower blood moon anywhere with a clear view of the sky. For a close-up view, grab binoculars or a telescope. (Pro-tip: City Editor Kyle got a peep of 2019’s lunar eclipse through the lens of her DSLR camera.) Check the weather forecast, as clouds and rain could hide your view.
Be sure to tag @ropermountain and @gvltoday in your photos of the eclipse.
