How to watch the total lunar eclipse this week in Ontario

Skywatchers could catch a total lunar eclipse this week in Ontario.

Early Friday, the moon will slip into Earth’s shadow for 65 minutes, according to Space.com. The moon will appear orange or red in what’s often called a “blood moon.”

The moon doesn’t produce light — its surface reflects the sun’s rays.

There are typically around two lunar eclipses a year but total eclipses are less frequent. This is the first total lunar eclipse visible in Canada since November of 2022, according to the Weather Network.

This month’s full moon, the “Worm Moon”, enters its full phase on Friday, March 14 at 2:54 a.m. in the GTA, according to Time and Date.

The nearly full moon will start to move into the Earth’s shadow at 11:57 p.m. (Eastern Daylight Time) on Thursday, according to Space.com.

It will be in peak total eclipse at 2:59 a.m. and the eclipse ends around 6 a.m. on Friday.

Clear skies are best to watch the eclipse. Currently, partly cloudy periods are expected overnight Thursday into Friday in the GTA, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada. So, if the clouds clear, even for a few minutes, there is a chance to see the eclipse in southern Ontario.

Unlike a solar eclipse, you can safely look at a lunar eclipse at any point. People don’t need special glasses.

Viewers also don’t need a telescope but it could enhance the experience. The eclipse is best viewed away from city lights and trees. In Ontario, Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve is a good choice but a drive to a lakeside location could also provide a good view.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Canadian Space Agency (@canadianspaceagency)