A live stream is available for those who cannot watch TONIGHT'S lunar eclipse. Image: Pixabay
Can’t watch TONIGHT’S penumbral lunar eclipse due to cloudy skies? All is not lost, here is a live stream to ensure you do not miss out.
By: Michelle Swart
With cloudy skies expected for most areas of the country, not everyone will be able to see the penumbral lunar eclipse tonight, 5 May.
Thankfully, a live stream will be available for those who are unable to see the event.
ALSO READ: A list of full moons this year – including a BLUE MOON
Virtual telescope will be hosting a live viewing on their website of the eclipse, you can watch this later tonight by clicking here.
This will also be viewable from their YouTube channel.
A penumbral lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through Earth’s penumbra, or the faint outer part of its shadow. This will be 3 hours and 40 minutes long.
The start (17:14) will not be visible from South Africa, as the Moon will only rise over South Africa at 17:25.
The maximum penumbral eclipse will be at 19:22 and will end at 21:31.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Footage of a total solar eclipse [VIDEO]
This event takes place when the Moon passes through the faint, outer part of Earth’s shadow, the penumbra. This type of eclipse is not as dramatic as other types of lunar eclipses and is often mistaken for a regular Full Moon.
Every lunar eclipse begins and ends with a penumbral stage. This is where the Moon passes through the light, outer part of Earth’s shadow, called the penumbra.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Astronomer catches METEORITE smashing into the moon
During this, the Moon passes through Earth’s penumbra, but not its umbra. The penumbra is a much lighter shadow than the umbra, so the Moon only gets slightly dimmer during a penumbral eclipse. In fact, it can be difficult to see a penumbral eclipse with the naked eye.
The best time to try and catch it is when the Moon is at the center of the penumbra. At this time, one edge of the Moon may appear slightly darker than the other.
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