Rare Total Lunar Eclipse to Last Over 5 Hours on September 7
New Delhi, 26 August – (www.deccanlive.com): A rare total lunar eclipse will be visible across the world, including the Arab region, on the evening of Sunday, September 7. The event will last for more than five hours and can be seen with the naked eye—no special equipment required.
This eclipse is considered one of the most important astronomical events of the year and will coincide with the full moon of Rabi al-Awwal 1447 (Hijri calendar).
Key Timings (Kolkatta Local Time)
- 8:58 PM – Eclipse begins (penumbral phase; not visible to the eye).
- 9:57 PM – Partial eclipse starts.
- 11:01 PM – Total eclipse begins.
- 11:42 PM – Eclipse reaches its peak.
- 12:23 AM (next day) – Moon starts moving out of totality.
- 1:26 AM (next day) – Partial eclipse ends.
- 2:25 AM (next day) – Eclipse completely ends.
The total phase of the eclipse will last about 1 hour and 22 minutes, while the whole event will continue for about 5 hours and 27 minutes.
Visible Across the Globe
According to astronomy experts, the eclipse will be visible in Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, Australia, and even the polar regions—anywhere the moon is above the horizon at that time.
Why the Moon Turns Red or Orange
During a total lunar eclipse, the moon often appears red or orange. This happens because Earth’s atmosphere filters sunlight, scattering blue light and letting only red/orange light pass through, which reflects on the moon’s surface.
Scientific Importance
Astronomers highlight that lunar eclipses are important for confirming the timing of Islamic lunar months, since they only occur when the moon is completely full and aligned with the Earth and Sun.
Public Viewing Event
In Egypt, the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics will organize a public event on September 27, allowing citizens to observe the eclipse through telescopes. Lectures and seminars will also be held to explain the phenomenon.
