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On May 15, Calgary residents can see a rare red moon, as a total lunar eclipse will be seen throughout Canada.
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Sunday will mark the first total lunar eclipse to be seen in Alberta this year.
The celestial event occurs when the moon travels through the earth’s shadow in space and only with the correct alignment between the sun, earth and moon.
According to a press release published by Telus World of Science, during the eclipse the moon will enter the dark shadow of the Earth, acquiring a dark red or rusty appearance.
“Although direct sunlight does not reach the moon during a dark eclipse, the moon is illuminated by a small amount of long-wavelength sunlight refracting through the Earth’s atmosphere,” the statement said. “After the end of the partial eclipse, the full moon in May, known as the colored moon, will shine again in the night sky.
The lunar eclipse does not require special monitoring equipment and is safe to see with the naked eye.
Telescopes and binoculars will offer better details about the moon, but are not required. A location that provides unobstructed views of the southeastern horizon will offer the best views.
The total eclipse is expected to begin at approximately 9:28 p.m. and end at 10:54 p.m. The half-eclipse is expected to end around 12:51 p.m.
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