Blood Moon Eclipse at Sydney Observatory

Overview

Total lunar eclipses occur regularly, if a little infrequently, but the next total lunar eclipse is set to be something special. The blood moon eclipse, when the moon turns a deep red before disappearing completely in the shadow of our own planet. Set to occur on Tuesday, March 3, this will be the final total lunar eclipse until December 2028 — so Sydney Observatory is going all out to help you see it.

For the momentous lunar occasion, Sydney Observatory is teaming up with Nagoya City Science Museum in Japan, simultaneously observing the event from two continents and connecting the two via livestream for audiences in both nations. While you can see the eclipse from anywhere — weather permitting — you may as well see it from Sydney's highest natural point for the full effect, right?

Explaining the science behind the phenomena, Dr Andrew Jacob, Astronomer and Curator at Sydney Observatory, said, "From any one location on Earth, you will see a Total Lunar Eclipse about once every 2.5 years, if the weather allows. Everyone on the night side of the Earth can see this eclipse when it happens. When the Moon is in the darkest part of Earth's shadow only red light reaches it, which will cause it to change colour."

With the grounds open from 8–11.30pm for ticketholders — you'll also have the added benefits of viewing it through telescopes alongside members of the Sydney Skywatchers Society, the broadcast view from Nagoya and the professional astronomers guiding you through with all the astronomical knowledge you'll ever need.

While you're there, you have reign of the grounds, and your free ticket will also grant you access to Sydney Observatory's exhibitions, including a celestial photography worthy of the stars in Southern Sky Observatory and an exploration of the history of First Nations astronomy in I Put The Stars on The Ground. If you can't make it on the night, the eclipse is scheduled to peak at 10.33pm, and you can watch the livestream on YouTube.

The Blood Moon Eclipse is taking place from 8–11.30pm on Tuesday, March 3 at Sydney Observatory. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website.

Images: Jay Evans/supplied