July 23, 2024
NEHA MEWARI
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A lunar eclipse happens when Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon during a Full Moon, aligning the Sun, Earth, and Moon in perfect order.
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The Moon turns red during a total lunar eclipse due to Earth’s atmosphere scattering blue light, letting only red light reach the Moon.
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Up to three lunar eclipses occur each year, but total lunar eclipses are rarer. Some years might have none, while others have multiple.
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Unlike solar eclipses, total lunar eclipses are visible from anywhere on the night side of Earth, making them easier to observe.
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The Saros cycle, about 18 years and 11 days, dictates eclipse timings. After one cycle, eclipses repeat with similar geometry.
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Columbus used a lunar eclipse in 1503 to manipulate Jamaicans by predicting it and then "returning" the Moon to gain their favor.
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Ancient cultures often saw lunar eclipses as omens. For instance, the Chinese believed a dragon was devouring the Moon, leading to noise-making rituals.
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Stonehenge might have been used to predict lunar eclipses, with its stone arrangement aligning with certain astronomical events, including eclipses.
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On the Moon during a lunar eclipse, Earth would block the Sun, appearing as a bright ring with all the world’s sunrises and sunsets visible.
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Totality during a lunar eclipse can last up to 1 hour and 40 minutes. The October 27, 2004, eclipse lasted 1 hour and 22 minutes.