Queens, New York, is set to experience a rare and awe-inspiring celestial event tonight—a blood moon lunar eclipse. Skygazers across the borough are in for a treat as the moon transitions into a reddish hue during this total lunar eclipse in the early hours of Friday morning.
The eclipse is scheduled to kick off at 11:57 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, starting with the penumbral phase where the moon enters Earth’s outer shadow. Following this, the partial eclipse will begin at 1:09 a.m. on Friday, March 14, as the moon moves into the darker umbra. The total lunar eclipse, or totality, will take place from 2:26 a.m. to 3:31 a.m., with the event wrapping up by 4:32 a.m.
During a blood moon lunar eclipse, the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that results in the moon taking on a reddish tint. This phenomenon occurs due to Rayleigh scattering, where sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter blue wavelengths, allowing longer red wavelengths to reach the moon, giving it a captivating coppery glow.
Throughout history, blood moons have been shrouded in myth and superstition. From ancient civilizations viewing them as omens of disaster or change to Norse mythology depicting a wolf chasing the moon, these celestial events have sparked imagination and wonder across cultures.
Despite these mystical associations, astronomers emphasize that a blood moon is a natural occurrence, offering a stunning visual spectacle rather than a harbinger of chaos. The event is a reminder of the beauty and mystery of the universe, captivating audiences with its eerie yet mesmerizing display.
For optimal viewing in Queens, several locations provide excellent vantage points. Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City boasts unobstructed views along the East River, offering a picturesque backdrop for observing the eclipse. Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and Astoria Park, with their spacious green areas and clear sightlines, also make for ideal spots to witness this celestial phenomenon.
Interestingly, while special equipment or specific vantage points are not necessary for viewing lunar eclipses, the blood moon will be visible from virtually anywhere in Queens. Whether you choose to watch from your backyard, a balcony, or even through a window, the moon will be on full display as long as the skies remain clear.
Conditions for viewing the eclipse are expected to be favorable, with clear skies forecasted during the eclipse hours. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye, though binoculars or telescopes can enhance the experience by revealing more intricate details of the moon’s surface.
This total lunar eclipse, the first since 2022, will be visible across North and South America. The next opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse won’t come until September 2025, making this event a truly special and unique experience for skywatchers in Queens and beyond. So, be sure to set your alarm, step outside, and witness the magic of the blood moon lunar eclipse tonight.
