Understanding Lunar Eclipses: The Truth Behind Blood Wolf Moons

The term 'blood wolf moon' is a confusing and misleading phrase often used by media and astrologists to describe a total lunar eclipse. If you're interested in witnessing the celestial phenomenon known as a total lunar eclipse, this article will guide you through the basics and how to prepare for upcoming events.

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the moon. There are three types of lunar eclipses: total, partial, and penumbral. A total lunar eclipse is the most spectacular, as the moon becomes completely immersed in Earth's umbra (the darkest part of the shadow).

During a total lunar eclipse, the moon often takes on a reddish color, which is why it's sometimes called a 'blood moon.' However, this term is not scientifically accurate and is more of a marketing phrase designed to grab attention. The reddish color occurs because only the longest and most scattered wavelengths of light are able to bend around the Earth and hit the moon, giving it a red or coppery appearance.

Blood Wolf Moon Myth Busted

The phrase 'blood wolf moon' is a combination of marketing jargon and folklore. 'Blood moon' has been heavily marketed as a term for a total lunar eclipse, while 'wolf' is often used as a placeholder for 'January' based on old folklore. However, these terms are no longer used by astronomers or planetary scientists, as they can give a false sense of mystique to a natural occurrence.

There will be no total lunar eclipse tonight, or anytime this year. The next total lunar eclipse will occur on May 26, 2021. Unfortunately, there will be a partial lunar eclipse on July 16, 2019, but it will not be visible from North America.

Best Time for Viewing

If you're interested in viewing a total lunar eclipse, check local moonrise and moonset times based on your location. You can find more information at Wikipedia and use apps like Eclipse Guide on your mobile device to get the exact timings and visibility details for any location on Earth.

Prepare for Upcoming Eclipses

If you're keen to see a future lunar eclipse, here are a few tips to ensure you're ready:

Check moonrise and moonset times for your specific location. Use apps like Eclipse Guide - Solar Lunar Eclipses Timer 2021 to track timings and visibility. Ensure clear skies and minimal light pollution for the best viewing experience. Be patient and aware of the weather forecast, as clouds can obscure the view.

By following these steps and staying informed, you can witness the incredible beauty and wonder of a total lunar eclipse without the misleading buzzwords.