Skywatchers across all 50 U.S. states can view a dramatic deep partial lunar eclipse during the full Sturgeon Moon, with 96.2% of the lunar disk passing through Earth’s dark umbral shadow to create a deep reddish-orange glow, according to reporting by Forbes. Unlike solar events, this celestial alignment requires no special eye protection and can be safely observed with the naked eye under clear skies.
When and Where to Watch the Lunar Eclipse Across U.S. Time Zones
The celestial alignment unfolds over several hours, but the most striking views occur during the peak of the shadow’s passage. According to Forbes, maximum eclipse timings vary by region across the contiguous U.S.:
- Eastern Time: Maximum eclipse occurs at 12:12 a.m. EDT on Friday, Aug. 28, with the partial phase beginning at 10:34 p.m. EDT.
- Central Time: Maximum eclipse peaks at 11:12 p.m. CDT on Thursday, Aug. 27, with partial phases starting at 9:34 p.m. CDT.
- Mountain Time: Peak shadow coverage happens at 10:12 p.m. MDT on Thursday, Aug. 27, following a 8:34 p.m. MDT start.
- Pacific Time: Observers see maximum eclipse at 9:12 p.m. PDT on Thursday, Aug. 27, after the partial phase starts at 7:34 p.m. PDT.
- Arizona: Most of the state reaches maximum eclipse at 9:12 p.m. MST on Thursday, Aug. 27.
Observers across the eastern and central regions can watch the entire sequence from its penumbral beginning past maximum eclipse. Along parts of the West Coast, the moon rises while the penumbral eclipse is already underway but before the distinct partial phase begins.
Alaska and Hawaii Visibility Exceptions
Alaska and Hawaii present unique viewing timelines because the moon sits below the horizon at the exact moment of maximum eclipse, according to Forbes data. In Anchorage, the best visible view appears at approximately 9:14 p.m. AKDT shortly after moonrise. Fairbanks observers catch their clearest view around 9:19 p.m. AKDT. In Honolulu, the moon rises after peak eclipse, offering the best visible window at roughly 6:50 p.m. HST as the lunar disk emerges from Earth’s shadow.
Visual Characteristics and the ‘Blood Moon’ Effect
Although classified as a partial lunar eclipse, this event comes remarkably close to a total eclipse. Forbes notes that 96.2% of the moon’s disk sits inside Earth’s umbral shadow at maximum, leaving only a thin sliver in direct sunlight. This alignment causes the lunar surface to glow in muted copper, orange, and deep red hues reminiscent of a total “Blood Moon.” The exact coloration depends on atmospheric dust and cloud filtering of sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Find a location away from bright city lights with an unobstructed view of the eastern or southeastern sky. Use a smartphone’s Night Mode or long-exposure setting to capture the reddish hues clearly.
Equipment and Safety Guidelines
No telescopes or binoculars are strictly necessary, though optical aids reveal finer details in the shifting surface colors. Photographers aiming to capture the event benefit from a sturdy tripod, manual focus on the moon’s edge, and a DSLR or mirrorless camera paired with a telephoto lens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special glasses to watch a lunar eclipse?
No. According to Forbes, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye, unlike solar eclipses.
How long does the entire eclipse last?
The entire event spans 5 hours and 38 minutes from the subtle penumbral beginning through maximum eclipse and beyond, as reported by Forbes.
Can you see northern lights during the eclipse?
Forbes notes there is a chance of northern lights coinciding with the celestial event across roughly 20 states.
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