Central Ohio’s skies have been delivering some serious cosmic eye candy this year.
From the awe-inspiring total solar eclipse to the rare aurora borealis, we’ve had plenty of reasons to look up. Now, another celestial show is on the way. On Tuesday, September 17: a supermoon and a partial lunar eclipse all in one night. If the clouds cooperate, it’s going to be a spectacular show.
Here’s what to know:
This lunar spectacle will kick off at 8:41 p.m. in Columbus and last until 12:47 a.m. on Wednesday, September 18, with the maximum eclipse happening at 10:44 p.m. According to NASA, this is the second and final lunar eclipse of the year.
And to make it even more exciting, it’s paired with a supermoon—a moon that’s closer to Earth than usual, making it appear larger in the sky.
So, what exactly is a partial lunar eclipse?
It’s when the Earth slides between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow over a small portion of the moon. Picture it as if someone’s taken a bite out of the moon—a little eerie but totally cool! You’ll be able to see the moon slightly dimmer as a result.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment to watch. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar one is safe to view with the naked eye. You can even grab a pair of binoculars or a telescope for a closer look, but no special protection is necessary.
Unfortunately, the forecast in Central Ohio is calling for some cloud cover (but still no rain) on the big night.
But don’t lose hope just yet! If the clouds part, here are a few tips for catching the action:
- Find an open view: Head to a spot away from city lights with a clear view of the sky. Parks or open fields are your best bet.
- Check the weather updates: Keep an eye on real-time weather apps to see if the clouds will break.
- Stay patient: Lunar eclipses happen slowly, so be prepared to hang out for a while. It’s worth the wait!
- Bring friends or family: Share the experience with someone else, and don’t forget a blanket and snacks—it’s a cosmic picnic!
If you miss out this time, don’t worry. Mark your calendars for March 13, 2025, when a total lunar eclipse will paint the moon red.
Featured image by Farhan Perdana, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic.
