A partial lunar eclipse will be visible from the UK in the early hours of Friday morning, with the Moon taking on a deep red colour. The event follows the solar eclipse seen earlier this month, making August a notable month for astronomers.
The eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Moon to appear a deep red. Around 93% of the Moon will be in the darkest part of Earth's shadow at the eclipse's maximum.
Timings and visibility
The spectacle begins around 2.20am on Friday, lasting until around 6.50am. The Met Office said: "The eclipse will begin at 2.23am, when the Moon enters the penumbra, the lighter outer part of the Earth’s shadow. At first, the dimming will be subtle and may be difficult to notice with the naked eye. The more obvious partial phase begins at 3.33am, as the Moon moves into the umbra, the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow."
Advice added: "Maximum eclipse will occur at 5.12am, when around 93% of the Moon will be immersed in the Earth’s darkest shadow. Although the partial phase continues until approximately 6.51am, the Moon will already have set across the UK by then."
Best viewing spots
For the best chance of seeing the full spectacle clearly, Royal Museums Greenwich said you'll need to find a high point with a clear view to the southwest. The ECHO complied a list of the best spots across Merseyside to see the eclipse.
