Harvest Blood Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse: A Spectacular Show on the Night of September 7

On the night of September 7, the night sky will witness a rare astronomical phenomenon: a total lunar eclipse coinciding with the Harvest Blood Moon. This event is special not only because of the brilliant beauty of the red moon, but also because of its symbolic meaning associated with the harvest season and the cycle of time.

A Harvest Blood Moon is a phenomenon in which the moon darkens and turns red. (Source: Alamy)

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes into the Earth’s shadow, preventing sunlight from shining directly on the Moon’s surface. However, the red light from the Sun still penetrates the Earth’s atmosphere and reflects onto the Moon, creating a characteristic red color – a phenomenon commonly known as a “Blood Moon”.

The Harvest Blood Moon is the name given to the nearest full moon before the autumnal equinox, which is traditionally associated with the harvest season in many cultures. This year, the event is extra special because it coincides with a total lunar eclipse – a rare coincidence in the celestial cycles.

According to science journalist Abigail Beall, people in most parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and parts of South America will have the chance to see the phenomenon. In the UK, where she lives, the eclipse will begin when the Moon is still below the horizon, but will appear about 20 minutes later – at around 7:30 p.m. – and last until it ends.

The lunar eclipse will take place on the evening of May 5, 2023. (Source: SPACE)

Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse can be viewed with the naked eye without any protective equipment. All you need is a clear sky and a good view to the east and you will see the Moon gradually darken and turn a magical red. Binoculars will make the experience more vivid.

For those emotionally tied to the lunar cycle – like Abigail, who gave birth to her son on the Harvest Moon last year – the event is not just an astronomical phenomenon, but also an emotional reminder of time, growth and life's defining moments.

In Vietnam, the ideal time to observe this natural phenomenon is the early morning of September 8, especially from 0:30 to 1:52. If you miss this event, you will have to wait another 6 months to admire the next total lunar eclipse, which will take place on March 3, 2026.

Minh Hoan

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/trang-mau-mua-gat-man-trinh-dien-ky-vi-cua-thien-nhien-vao-dem-7-9-ar962836.html