The longest total lunar eclipse of 21st century will be visible this Friday, July 27. The moon will be eclipsed for 1 hour and 43 minutes which is just a little shorter than theoretical limit of lunar eclipse – 1 hour and 47 minutes. During total lunar eclipse people all over the world will be able to see so called “blood moon”, this happens when moon passes through Earth’s shadow and appears to turn red or brown.
The same night Mars will be in opposition – position closest to the Earth that occurs approximately every 15 years. Thanks to this, Mars is going to be the 4th brightest object on the sky this Friday, after Sun, Moon and Venus.
From Croatia, we will be able to observe the eclipse from 8:25 pm, while the total eclipse will be visible from 9:30 pm. The maximum eclipse will occur at 10:20 pm when the moon will be passing through the center of Earth’s shadow.
You can observe these spectacular celestial events from the lake Jarun in Zagreb where the members of Astronomical Society Beskraj will set up their telescopes in case of good weather. Also, Cat Caffe Zagreb invites you to watch lunar eclipse with cats making you company in the chill atmosphere of their terrace. The best place for watching is definitely out in the country away from city lights. It’s up to you to choose the best spot but we strongly suggest you not to miss it!