A rare celestial event is set to grace the skies of the UK this March, captivating astronomy enthusiasts with a mesmerizing display. Following the remarkable sightings of the Northern Lights in January and a spectacular planet parade, the upcoming month promises even more excitement with two eclipses on the celestial calendar. March has been earmarked as a significant month by NASA, with four planets – Mercury, Mars, Venus, and Jupiter – taking center stage in the night sky. As explained by NASA, Venus will soon disappear from view in the western sky after sunset, while Jupiter and Mars will dominate the evening sky.
One of the highlights of March’s celestial showcase is the rare occurrence of a ‘blood moon’ during a partial lunar eclipse, scheduled to grace the UK’s skies on Friday, March 14. During the early hours of the morning, observers will witness the moon passing through Earth’s shadow, resulting in a captivating lunar spectacle. The phenomenon of a blood moon occurs when the sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere causes the moon to appear red. This unique lunar event is sure to be a sight to behold for skywatchers across the UK and Europe.
In addition to the blood moon, stargazers can also look forward to the full ‘worm moon’ on the same day, March 14. This full moon, also known as the worm moon, is a term coined by Native Americans to describe the last full moon of winter. The name is inspired by the emergence of worm trails in the thawing ground, marking the transition to spring. According to Royal Museums Greenwich, the worm moon is expected to make its appearance at 6.55am on March 14, offering a stunning view for sky enthusiasts.
For those eagerly anticipating more celestial phenomena, mark your calendars for Saturday, March 29, when a partial solar eclipse will be visible from the UK. During this event, the moon will pass in front of the sun, partially obscuring its light. Royal Museums Greenwich advises caution when observing solar eclipses, reminding viewers never to look directly at the sun to avoid eye damage. Solar eclipses are rare events caused by the precise alignment of the Earth, moon, and sun, casting shadows that can block sunlight partially or entirely in specific regions.
As astronomy continues to capture the imagination of individuals worldwide, these celestial events serve as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the universe above us. Whether witnessing the red hues of a blood moon, the illumination of a worm moon, or the cosmic dance of a solar eclipse, each event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the vastness of space. So, grab your telescopes or simply look up at the night sky to witness these awe-inspiring displays that remind us of the marvels beyond our own planet. Stay tuned for more updates and guides to exploring the celestial wonders above us.