How to Watch Tuesday's Harvest Moon and Partial Lunar Eclipse

What is a Harvest Moon?

The Harvest Moon, which is a full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox, is the traditional name given to the full moon in September. This year, the Harvest Moon coincides with a partial lunar eclipse causing the moon to turn a reddish hue.

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, blocking the sunlight from reaching the Moon. During a partial eclipse, only a portion of the Moon is obscured by the Earth's shadow. Unlike solar eclipses, which are dangerous to look at, lunar eclipses are safe to view without any special equipment.

When and Where to Watch the Eclipse

The Harvest Moon eclipse will begin on Tuesday, November 8, at 8:02 p.m. EST and reach its peak at 9:03 p.m. EST. The eclipse will be visible across North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and western Asia. The best views will be had from areas with clear skies.

How to Watch the Eclipse Safely

To safely view the eclipse, find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon. As the eclipse begins, the Moon will appear to take on a reddish hue. As the eclipse progresses, more and more of the Moon will be covered by the Earth's shadow until it reaches its peak. Once the eclipse peaks, the Moon will begin to emerge from the Earth's shadow until it is fully visible again.

Tips for Taking Photos of the Eclipse

If you're hoping to capture the lunar eclipse with your camera, there are a few tips you can follow to get the best results. Use a tripod to keep your camera steady, and use a long exposure to capture the details of the Moon. You may also want to use a lens with a long focal length to get a closer view of the eclipse.