Mark your calendars, stargazers – we’re due for a stunning astronomical event next month! The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) confirmed last Friday that a total lunar eclipse will take place on September 7 going into September 8, and a ‘blood moon’ will be visible – if the weather is kind. It’s been a little under three years since we last experienced a total lunar eclipse on November 8, 2022, so this should be a thrilling sight to behold.
What time can we see the eclipse?
The astronomical event is reported to begin on September 7 when the moon enters the penumbra – the first stage of the lunar eclipse – at 11.26pm, but stargazers will need to exhibit patience until the small hours of the next day, as the moon is expected to enter totality and be fully covered in the Earth’s shadow at 1.30am on September 8.
Maximum eclipse – the central phase of a lunar eclipse – is set to occur at 2.12am when the centre disc of the moon is closest to the centre of the Earth’s shadow, so try not to nod off before that, as this is the visual highlight of the astronomic event. Gradually, the moon will exit totality at 2.53am, and the eclipse will end at 4.57am when the moon completely moves out of the Earth’s shadow and regains its luminosity.
Where should I go to see the total lunar eclipse?
It’s best to post up in a spot that offers unobstructed views to the south and southwest – weather permitting – where the lunar eclipse won’t be blocked by buildings or other tall structures. In fact, the Hong Kong Space Museum advises, ‘It is possible to observe the eclipse from any district in Hong Kong as long as the view is unobstructed by buildings. Interested observers are advised to choose a location with a wide view to the south and southwest, such as waterfront promenades or parks in various districts.’
You may want to consider a location with high elevation such as the Peak, which has plenty of pathways and vantage points for lunar observations, and is fairly easy and convenient to get to, even at night. Driving up to Tai Mo Shan in the New Territories is another option, as it boasts a high peak and minimal light pollution. If you can’t make it out to see the eclipse in person, a live webcast is being jointly hosted by the Hong Kong Observatory, Hong Kong Space Museum, and numerous educational organisations.
What is a lunar eclipse?
Lunar eclipses occur when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are in direct alignment, forming a straight line that causes the Earth to cast a shadow on the moon. A total lunar eclipse will create the appearance of a ‘blood moon’ – so named for its reddish glow when the Earth’s atmosphere is perfectly positioned to scatter shorter blue wavelengths of light, while simultaneously allowing longer red wavelengths of light to reach the Moon.
What’s the difference between a lunar eclipse and a solar eclipse?
Well, the hint’s in the name, but to break it down, a lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth finds itself in the direct path between the Sun and the moon, thus casting a shadow on the moon. It’s an event that can only occur during a full moon – which we are due to experience on September 8. Meanwhile, a solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the Sun in a straight line, blocking sunlight either completely or partially. Lunar eclipses can be directly observed with the naked eye, but you’ll want to prepare protective eyewear accordingly before attempting a solar eclipse watching.
Hopefully the city will experience a clear night sky on the evening of September 7 for us to fully enjoy the visual spectacle that nature has in store! If you miss this upcoming total lunar eclipse, the next one is expected to occur on March 3, 2026.
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