Partial Lunar Eclipse — August 2026
About This Event
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves into Earth's shadow, which can only happen during a full moon. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are visible from anywhere on the night side of Earth, and no special equipment is needed to observe them safely. The Moon does not completely disappear during a total lunar eclipse — it often takes on a reddish-orange hue known as a 'blood moon'.
The Science
Earth's shadow has two parts: the umbra (the dark, central shadow) and the penumbra (the lighter, outer shadow). A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes entirely through the umbra. The red colour during totality is caused by Rayleigh scattering — the same effect that makes sunsets red. Earth's atmosphere refracts sunlight around the planet, filtering out shorter wavelengths and allowing only red and orange light to reach the Moon's surface.
Cycle & Recurrence
Lunar eclipses follow the same Saros cycle as solar eclipses. The 28 August 2026 partial lunar eclipse belongs to Saros series 136, which produces some of the deepest and longest lunar eclipses. Lunar eclipses occur in pairs with solar eclipses, typically separated by about two weeks. The August 2026 lunar eclipse follows the total solar eclipse of 12 August 2026.
Viewing Tips
- Lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye — no filters needed.
- Binoculars or a small telescope enhance the view of the Moon's colour changes.
- The partial phase begins when the Moon first enters Earth's umbra.
- Maximum eclipse is when the largest portion of the Moon is within the umbra.
- Photography is straightforward — a camera on a tripod with a telephoto lens works well.
- Check the timing for your timezone — the eclipse may occur during daylight or moonrise.
Eclipse Season
Eclipses often come in pairs or triads within a roughly 35-day window. These related eclipses are part of the same eclipse season:
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