Spectacular lunar eclipse forecast (From Witney Gazette)

Spectacular lunar eclipse forecast

A CHANGE in the weather is expected to set the stage for a spectacular total eclipse of the Moon tonight.

It will be the first time the event has been visible from the UK since January 2001.

Across Britain, thousands of people will watch as the silvery full Moon darkens and turns coppery red or orange.

The phenomenon occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Moon and the Sun.

Light scattering through the Earth's atmosphere is reduced to predominantly-red wavelengths, which reflect off the lunar surface.

In ancient times a "blood Moon" was viewed with dread and seen as an omen of disaster or great change.

'This is one of the best lunar eclipses from Britain for years. If the clouds stay away, it will be fascinating to watch'

Robin Scagell, Society for Popular Astronomy

Dramatic views of the eclipse, at its height from 10.24pm to 11.58pm, are promised almost everywhere in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Robin Scagell, from the Society for Popular Astronomy, said: "This is one of the best lunar eclipses from Britain for years. If the clouds stay away, it will be fascinating to watch the Moon's graceful movement through the shadow of the Earth and check its coppery glow."

The event can be observed without the need for any eye protection.

A partial eclipse will begin at 8.16pm as the Moon enters the Earth's penumbra, the twilight zone between shadow and illumination. At this stage its effects will be difficult to see.

The Moon will be fully immersed in the Earth's shadow by 10.44pm. Mid-eclipse will occur at 11.21pm with the Moon 44 degrees above the southern horizon.