Skywatchers across the UK could have the opportunity to observe a partial lunar eclipse later this week as the Sun, Earth, and Moon align. The event will take place in the early hours of Friday 28 August.
During the eclipse, the full Moon, also known as the Sturgeon Moon, may take on a reddish glow. This phenomenon occurs when Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Moon to enter Earth's shadow. Sunlight passing through Earth's atmosphere scatters blue wavelengths, allowing more red light to reach and reflect off the Moon.
The partial eclipse is expected to begin at 03:33 BST in London, when the Moon enters Earth's darkest shadow. It will reach its maximum at 05:12 BST, with approximately 90% of the Moon within the umbra. At this point, the Moon will be very low in the south-western sky, which may lead to the 'Moon illusion', making it appear larger than usual.
Exact moonset times will vary across the UK; in London, the Moon is expected to set around 06:15 BST. Viewing conditions are anticipated to differ across the country, with cloud and heavy showers likely in some areas, while central and eastern parts of England and Wales may experience clearer skies.