The first total lunar eclipse of the year can be seen in different places on the planet from this Sunday night until early Monday morning, including in Cuba.
The cosmic event can be observed without the need for special instruments, since it does not threaten the safety of human health, according to specialized sources.
During the eclipse the Moon, instead of being dark, will be painted red. This is because a fraction of sunlight is deflected by the Earth’s atmosphere, which filters out all components of white sunlight, passing only red. For this reason, this type of eclipse is called “Blood Moon”.
The Institute of Geophysics and Astronomy of Cuba (IGA) issued a statement confirming that the event will be visible “from all points of the national territory.”
Said entity indicated that the maximum moment of the eclipse will take place this Monday, May 16 at 00:11.5m, the end of the total eclipse will occur that same morning at 00:54.4m, and the end of the penumbral phase will occur at 2:52.3m, “all times in the Summer Time of the Republic of Cuba”.
“A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon penetrates the shadow cone that the Earth projects in space,” explains the IGA, according to which the event will occur “1.5 days before the Moon reaches its perigee.” This is the point in the lunar orbit at which it is closest to its center and at which it reaches its highest orbital velocity.
“During the eclipse, the Moon will be projected in the constellation of Libra”, adds the communication.
The phenomenon will be visible throughout Europe, while people located in the eastern region of North America, Central and South America will enjoy greater or lesser visibility depending on weather conditions, according to experts.
In addition, it will be partially seen in Africa and the Middle East, while the inhabitants of Alaska, Asia and Australia will not be able to enjoy the event.
With this eclipse, the first “Blood Moon” of the year will be seen, while the second will be on November 8.
