PAGASA confirms total lunar eclipse to be visible across PH

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) explained that the total lunar eclipse will be visible in East Africa, Australia, and other parts of Asia including the Philippines in the early hours of September 8. According to PAGASA, the celestial occasion will begin in the midnight of September 7, with the final phase occurring exactly at 2:12 a.m. on September 8, where the Earth's shadow completely envelops the Moon. "During the maximum eclipse, the umbral shadow cast by the Earth will obscure 100% of the Moon's disk. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as a 'Blood Moon' due to the reddish hue the Moon adopts,” PAGASA explained. Furthermore, PAGASA also mentioned that its coloration occurs as Earth’s atmosphere filters and scatters sunlight, allowing only the red wavelengths to reach and illuminate the lunar surface. In regards to the totality of the event, it was estimated to last for exactly one hour, 22 minutes, and 54 seconds, or until the partial lunar eclipse phase ends at 2:53 a.m. "A total lunar eclipse is very easy to observe. A modest pair of binoculars will provide an excellent view of the Moon's surface, but it is not required. Unlike solar eclipses, observing a lunar eclipse is completely safe and does not require protective eyewear," PAGASA stated. In addition, the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) further explained why and how a lunar eclipse happens during the full moon phase. "When Earth is positioned precisely between the Moon and Sun, Earth’s shadow falls upon the surface of the Moon, dimming it and sometimes turning the lunar surface a striking red over the course of a few hours. Each lunar eclipse is visible from half of Earth," NASA answered.