Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science » in reply to Perfect conditions until totality, then clouds moved in.

re: Perfect conditions until totality, then clouds moved in.

You're right ER, it was fairly dark. From the below and my vantage point since the outer edges were lighter, I'd say it was between an L1 & L2 (can you say 'between'?):

[While every lunar eclipse appearance is different, the physics that govern them is the same. If our Earth didn't have an atmosphere to bend the sunlight back towards the Moon, it would always become invisible during the umbral, or total phase of an eclipse. Suspended in our atmosphere is dust - one of the major reasons for eclipse coloration. The less dust, the lighter the colors. Heavy dust in our atmosphere causes not only spectacular sunrises and sunsets, but deep eclipses as well. As you enjoy the eclipse, think of what is really causing the incredible colors and subtle tones you'll see… The combined effect of all the simultaneous sunrises and sunsets on Earth projected onto the Moon!

Lunar eclipses are particularly fun because they don't require any special equipment to observe. However, if you use a pair of binoculars you can magnify the view and see the shadows race across the Moon's surface. This eclipse will also a very good time for amateur astronomers to make great scientific observations as well! For visual observers, using the Danjon Brightness Scale for lunar eclipses, amateurs can categorize the Moon's color and brightness during totality. It's easy! Just remember these values:

L = 0 Very dark eclipse, where the Moon is almost invisible, especially at mid-totality.
L = 1 Dark Eclipse, gray or brownish in coloration and details on the surface are hard to see.
L = 2 Deep red or rust-colored eclipse with a very dark central shadow, while the outer edge of umbra is relatively bright.
L = 3 Brick-red colors and the umbral shadow usually has a bright or yellow rim.
L = 4 Very bright copper-red or orange eclipse where the umbral shadow has a bluish, very bright rim.]

Universe Today.

Log in or register to post.

The whole thread (20 posts)