Stargazers gather to witness rare ‘Blood Moon’ in Pakistani skies

• The phenomenon happens when the Sun, Earth and Moon line up, causing the planet to cast a giant shadow across its satellite
• Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to observe with naked eye, binoculars or telescopes, the Pakistani space agency says

ISLAMABAD: Astronomy enthusiasts, students and the general public came together on Sunday to witness a rare lunar eclipse, commonly called the “Blood Moon,” which began in the Pakistani skies at around 0830pm local time.

The phenomenon happens when the Sun, Earth and Moon line up, causing the planet to cast a giant shadow across its satellite. But as the Earth’s shadow creeps across the Moon, it does not entirely blot out its white glow and instead the Moon glows a reddish color.

Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to observe with the naked eye, binoculars or telescopes, according to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).

The fascinating celestial phenomenon, which began in Pakistan at 0830pm, will reach its maximum at 2357am and conclude at 0155am on Monday, when a portion of the Moon will appear darkened as it passes through Earth’s shadow.

“The eclipse will be visible in Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe, with clear visibility expected in most regions of Pakistan, weather permitting,” SUPARCO said in a statement.

This phenomenon happens because the only sunlight that reaches the Moon is “bent and scattered” as it goes through Earth’s atmosphere, according to experts.

It is similar to how the light can become pink or red during sunrises or sunsets on Earth. The more clouds and dust there are in Earth’s atmosphere, the redder the Moon appears.

“This is a great chance for people, especially students and astronomy enthusiasts, to connect with science and explore the wonders of our Universe,” SUPARCO added.