Lunar Eclipse "Blood Moon" March 13: Can Vietnam see it?
On March 13-14, a total lunar eclipse will occur, creating a mysterious "blood moon". However, will Vietnam have the opportunity to observe this phenomenon?
Amazing astronomical phenomenon
On the night of March 13 to the morning of March 14, a remarkable astronomical phenomenon will appear in the sky - a total lunar eclipse, also known as a "blood moon". When the Moon is completely covered by the Earth's shadow, it does not disappear but turns dark red due to the refraction of sunlight.
The event is not only a beautiful phenomenon, but also recalls the historical story of Christopher Columbus. In 1504, when stranded on the coast of Jamaica, he used his knowledge of astronomy to scare the natives with a lunar eclipse, making them believe that the gods were angry and continued to provide him with food.
The March 13 lunar eclipse is also part of the Saros astronomical cycle, which repeats every 18 years, 11 days, and 8 hours. This cycle has been recorded by NASA since 1628 and will continue for centuries to come.
Can Vietnam observe the "blood moon" this time?
The lunar eclipse on March 13 will last about 5 hours, with the "blood moon" phase appearing for about 65 minutes. However, not all places in the world can observe this phenomenon.
The Pacific, North America and South America will have clear views. Parts of Europe will be able to see the moon set near dawn, while East Asia will only catch a glimpse of the moon rise.
Unfortunately, according to Time&Date, Vietnam is not in the area where the lunar eclipse in March can be observed. Due to its geographical location and timing, the lunar eclipse will take place when the Moon has set below the horizon in Vietnam.
Astronomy enthusiasts in Vietnam will have to wait until September 7 to admire the first total lunar eclipse of the year. This will be the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022, lasting up to 1 hour and 22 minutes.
Why does the moon turn red?
Instead of disappearing completely into darkness, the Moon when covered by the Earth will appear red due to Rayleigh scattering. Sunlight passes through the Earth's atmosphere, the gas particles in the atmosphere scatter blue light, while red light is bent towards the Moon, giving it its characteristic red color.
This phenomenon is similar to the reason why the sky appears blue during the day and red at sunrise or sunset. It is because of the refraction of light that observers on Earth can see the Moon tinged with a mysterious red color during total lunar eclipses.
