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Another night, another moon, except this one’s going to blush deep red.
A total lunar eclipse is when the Earth slips directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its darkest shadow (the umbra) over the lunar surface. Instead of disappearing, the Moon turns coppery red (sometimes even a dusky brown) thanks to sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), today’s eclipse has a magnitude of 1.155, marking it as a deep total lunar eclipse.
Will Delhi see the red moon?
Here’s the catch: most of India – including Delhi – will miss the early and peak stages of the eclipse because they occur before moonrise.
By the time the Moon rises over Delhi’s eastern horizon, the eclipse will already be in its final phase. So what you’ll catch is the tail end of the spectacle, which means a partially shadowed Moon, possibly tinged red, just before the eclipse concludes.
Best time to look up in Delhi
For Delhiites, the best viewing window is around 6:40pm, just before the eclipse officially ends at 6:48pm. Look toward the eastern horizon right at moonrise for your best chance.
How to get the best view
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Head to an open space with a clear eastern view, so rooftops, terraces, parks.
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Reach your spot by 6:30pm to avoid missing the brief window.
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No telescope needed, because lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye.
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Binoculars can enhance the colour contrast if you have them handy.
While cities further east – and parts of East Asia, Australia and the Americas – will get a longer show, Delhi still gets a fleeting glimpse.