Despite the concealing darkness, the moon is still visible.

Despite the dark night, the moon remains visible. - The reasonwhy the moon can still be seen in the dark.

Get ready for a celestial spectacle as a total lunar eclipse is set to light up the night skies of Germany on Sunday, September 7. This astronomical event will offer a unique opportunity for stargazers across the country to witness the moon turning a reddish-brown hue.

The eclipse will begin with the moon's entry into the Earth's penumbra at 17:27. The partial phase of the eclipse can be observed from Germany as early as the morning of August 28, but one would have to rise early to catch a glimpse. The total phase of the eclipse will commence around 19:30 and last until around 20:53.

The duration of the eclipse on the moon's surface is extended due to the Earth's diameter being about four times larger than that of the moon. This means that the Earth's shadow cast upon the moon will last longer, providing a more extended period for viewers to observe the eclipse.

The chances of observing the eclipse are highest in the south and northeast of Germany, but with clear skies, it can be seen from all over the country. In Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne, the moon will rise at 19:37, 19:40, 19:52, and 20:01 respectively, offering ample opportunity for stargazers to catch a glimpse.

Astronomers have explained that a lunar eclipse occurs when the fully illuminated moon passes through the Earth's shadow. During this event, the Earth moves between the moon and the sun in its orbit, casting a shadow on the moon's surface.

This eclipse might be difficult to see directly at the horizon, but it will be easier to spot once it's higher in the sky. For those who wish to delve deeper into the event, German research institutions such as the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) will be specially opened for the lunar eclipse sky spectacle.

While lunar eclipses are not as exciting for scientists due to known phenomena, they can spark interest in astronomy among the general public. The next total lunar eclipse that can be seen from America and Asia will occur on March 3, 2026. For Germany, the next total lunar eclipse will occur on December 31, 2028.

Intrigued by the celestial dance? Mark your calendars for September 7, 2023, and prepare for a mesmerising display of nature's grandeur. Happy stargazing!