The astronomical event, which catches the attention of human being since the ancient time, is lunar eclipse. This event takes place when the moon is located in the shadow or umbra behind earth. The lunar eclipse will only happen if the position of earth is in the middle of moon and sun. The location of the moon related to its orbital nodes will determine the length and type of lunar eclipse. Find facts about Lunar Eclipse below
Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 1: a total lunar eclipse
When the shadow of earth completely blocks the direct sunlight, the total lunar eclipse occurs.
Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 2: the refraction
The people can only see the refracted light during the total lunar eclipse. The Rayleigh scattering of blue light produces the red light. That is why; the term blood moon is often used to call a total lunar eclipse.
Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 3: where to spot lunar eclipse
Lunar eclipse always occurs during the nighttime. Thus, the people from different parts of the world can view this event as long as it is in the nighttime. It is different from the solar eclipse, which can only be spotted in parts of the world.
Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 4: the length of lunar eclipse
A total solar eclipse may only last for a few minutes. The lunar eclipse is longer for it may last for a few hours. The former eclipse does not last longer because the Moon’s shadow is in smaller.
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Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 5: eye protection
You will need eye protection when seeing the solar eclipse. During the lunar eclipse, eye protection is not needed. It is safer to view due to the dimmer look.
Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 6: Columbus and lunar eclipse
Columbus was capable for predicting the lunar eclipse. The event is called March 1504 lunar eclipse when he arrived at the north coast of Jamaica. He used the scientific understanding to predict the moon.
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Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 7: the native inhabitants
The native inhabitants refused to give food for Columbus and his crew. To get the food again, he said to them that he could make the moon disappear. On 29 February 1504, the moon disappeared and the inhabitants wanted him to bring back the moon. They agreed to give more food for Columbus and his crew.
Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 8: the myths
The myths related to lunar eclipse is seen as bad and good omen depending on the culture.
Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 9: the ancient Egyptians
A moon was swallowed by a sow according to ancient Egyptians.
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Cool Facts about Lunar Eclipses 10: Mayan culture
The Mayan culture believed that a jaguar ate the moon.
Are you impressed after reading facts about lunar eclipses?