Saturday, June 18, 2011

Why does the moon turn red during an eclipse?


Lunar eclipses always occur during a full moon . In eclipse, the Earth illuminated by the sun, creates a long shadow cone shape that covers the satellite. This known known as the threshold. A total lunar eclipse occurs when it passes completely within the threshold.


During totality, which can last about an hour (since the shadow of our planet is larger than its satellite), the Moon is not completely invisible, but has a weak red light caused by sunlight scattered by our atmosphere .

In antiquity this red glow of the moon eclipsed produced panic among those who watched, that they believed was an indication of future castástrofes.

Today's eclipse
South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia now enjoy a total lunar eclipse of 6 hours. The best places to see the phenomenon will be South Asia, eastern Europe and, especially, northeastern Africa. However, the inhabitants of the rest of Europe and South America and West Africa will also see its end.

For time reasons, in the eastern half of Argentina can be seen over the last three stages, and the West will only last two. Thus, the province of Misiones is one of the most favored to view the eclipse. To appreciate the phenomenon that occurs in the constellation Ophiucus (between Scorpio and Sagittarius) will have to look towards the east / northeast, without having to use filters, because the lunar eclipses do not damage your eyes. Nor do you need a telescope, because the weather is good, it will at first sight.

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