After 150years, we will see lunar eclipse, supermoon, blue-moon together
Skygazers and passive bystanders alike are going to witness a fantastic astronomical event on the 31st of January. On Wednesday, Earthlings will witness a "super blue blood" moon at the same time, along with a total lunar eclipse. This spectacular occurrence, which is taking place after 150 years, will be visible from many countries including India, China, Russia, Australia and Thailand.
A brief note on the super blue blood moon
"Supermoon" is a colloquial term referring to the perigee or point when the moon is closest to Earth. At perigee, the moon appears 14% larger than when at apogee (furthest from Earth). A "blue moon" is the second full moon in one calendar month. The reddish/orange-ish "blood moon" occurs during total lunar eclipses when sunlight passing through the Earth's atmosphere scatters shorter wavelength colors.
Interest in "blood moons" have increased of late
While there have been sparse mentions of "blood moons" throughout history, according to Google Trends, the term was most popular during 2014-2016. It's believed that "Four Blood Moons: Something Is About to Change", a book by pastor John Hagee, revived interest in moon-related apocalyptic prophecies.
Details of the rare astronomical event
On January 31st, all three occurrences - supermoon, blue moon, and blood moon - are set to happen simultaneously, and will pass through the shadow of the Earth for a total lunar eclipse. In Indian Standard Time (IST), the event will begin at around 5.53pm, and will continue for 3 hours and 45 minutes, including a one minute 32 second-long total eclipse at 6.59pm.
Observatory in Nainital will offer one of Asia's best views
For viewers in India, the pollution-free skies on Nainital, Uttarakhand will provide the most breathtaking view of the spectacle. Many enthusiasts have been planning to go to Nainital's Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences situated at 2,450m above sea level, one of the best-equipped and best-positioned observatories in Asia. The phenomenon will also be visible to the naked eye from most places in India.
