Red fiery moon and Saturn: A stunning astronomical display over the Netherlands
Residents of the Netherlands will enjoy a rare sight on Sunday evening with a total lunar eclipse lighting up the sky. According to the website weeronline, the eclipse will not be fully visible until after the moon rises, but it promises a view worth waiting for.
The eclipse begins at 17:27 and lasts until 22:57, peaking at 20:12. Around this time, the moon will start to appear above the eastern horizon coinciding with sunset at 20:15. The best time to watch will be between 20:25 and 20:53, when the moon emerges from the Earth's deepest shadow. During the eclipse, Saturn will also be visible, appearing as a bright yellow dot near the moon.
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow on the surface of the moon. The moon often takes on a deep red color during this phenomenon, known as the "blood moon."
The weather is expected to allow most residents of the Netherlands to enjoy the scene. Forecasts indicate a warm evening with temperatures ranging from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. Some high clouds coming from the North Sea may pass, especially in the west, but they will be thin enough to see the eclipse clearly. With temperatures remaining above 20 degrees in most areas, and above 25 degrees in the south, there will be no need to wear coats.
The moon will appear slightly larger than usual during this eclipse, but it will not be considered a "supermoon." The wait for the next supermoon will not be long, as it will occur on October 21, 2025.