Lunar Eclipses

A lunar eclipse is a special sky show. It happens when Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon. Earth blocks the sunlight and casts a shadow on the Moon. During a total eclipse, the Moon can turn a deep red color. People call this a blood moon.

How It Happens

The Moon goes around Earth once a month. Most of the time, it misses Earth's shadow. But sometimes the Sun, Earth, and Moon line up just right. When that happens, the Moon passes through the shadow. This only occurs during a full moon.

The Red Moon

Why does the Moon look red during an eclipse? Earth's air bends sunlight around our planet. The air scatters blue light but lets red light pass through. That red light then shines onto the Moon. It is like seeing every sunset on Earth at once.

Fun Facts

• Lunar eclipses are safe to watch without special glasses.
• A total lunar eclipse can last over an hour.
• Ancient people sometimes thought eclipses were bad omens.

Did You Know?

You can see a lunar eclipse from anywhere on the night side of Earth at the same time.