Crimson Blood Moon 8 Oct 2014

Across the world on Oct 8, sky-watchers will be casting their gaze towards the heavens for a glimpse of the rare blood moon - where the moon appears reddish as a result of a total lunar eclipse. This phenomenal cosmic event begins on Oct 8 before sunrise in North America, and is a cause for excitement among astronomy enthusiasts here too, as the blood moon is expected to be visible in Singapore's skies this evening. Here are some interesting facts about this once-in-a-red-moon occurrence: When the Sun, Earth and Moon are aligned, a total lunar eclipse occurs and sees the Moon passing close to the centre of the Earth's inner shadow - the umbra. The filtering and refracting effect of Earth's atmosphere creates a blush on the face of the Moon, giving it a reddish hue. Not only is this eclipse one of the most striking astronomical events visible from Earth, the blood moon can also be seen by the naked eye and does not require telescopes. Tonight's celestial show can be watched by sky-gazers in the Americas and Asia. The full eclipse will begin at 3.25am Pacific Daylight Time (6.25pm Singapore time) and will continue for about an hour. - See more at: http://www.straitstimes.com/news/singapore/more-singapore-stories/story/crimson-glory-all-you-need-know-about-the-rare-blood-moo#sthash.mqpY1QYe.dpuf