Total Lunar Eclipse July 2018 & Mars Opposition in Pakistan
On 27th July 2018, it is going to be the longest total lunar eclipse of the 21st century. The totality spans 1 hour 42 minutes and 57 seconds. This night is a special one as planet Mars will be in opposition (that is closest to Earth) which will be its closest approach since 2003.
The most wonderful thing about this night is that greatest Mars opposition and longest Total Lunar Eclipse, both Astronomical events are happening at the same night.
Event Photos
Total Lunar Eclipse July 2018
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1098685870288798.1073741852.742450732578982&type=1&l=8615d06ff8
When to observe in Karachi, Pakistan?
This total lunar eclipse is visible in most part of the world. We are lucky that in Pakistan we will witness from the very beginning until the end of this wonderful event.
| Event | UTC Time | Time in Karachi, Lahore, ISL* | Visible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penumbral Eclipse begins | 27 Jul, 17:14:47 | 27 Jul, 22:14:47 | Yes |
| Partial Eclipse begins | 27 Jul, 18:24:27 | 27 Jul, 23:24:27 | Yes |
| Full Eclipse begins | 27 Jul, 19:30:15 | 28 Jul, 00:30:15 | Yes |
| Maximum Eclipse | 27 Jul, 20:21:44 | 28 Jul, 01:21:44 | Yes |
| Full Eclipse ends | 27 Jul, 21:13:11 | 28 Jul, 02:13:11 | Yes |
| Partial Eclipse ends | 27 Jul, 22:19:00 | 28 Jul, 03:19:00 | Yes |
| Penumbral Eclipse ends | 27 Jul, 23:28:38 | 28 Jul, 04:28:38 | Yes |
Above table source: timeanddate.com
* The Moon is above the horizon during this eclipse, in fact, it will be almost overhead. If the skies are clear, it will be visible from Karachi.
The times displayed are accurate within 2-3 seconds.
The magnitude of the eclipse is 1.609.
Total duration of the eclipse: 6 hours, 14 minutes.
Total duration of the partial phases: 2 hours, 12 minutes.
Duration of the full eclipse: 1 hour, 43 minutes.
The Sky on the 27th July 2018 – Lunar Eclipse and Mars at opposition
The Moon just before the Total Lunar Eclipse on 27th July with Mars at opposition (Stellarium).
Bird’s Eye View of what is happening
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How to observe Lunar Eclipse
Get a pair of binoculars or a telescope and go outside and find the Moon around 11:00pm. You can easily observe this lunar eclipse phenomenon from Karachi or anywhere in Pakistan. The only condition is that the sky should be clear and without clouds. No need to avoid light pollution although light pollution itself is not good 🙂
You do not need a binoculars or a telescope. Just clear skies!
If you don’t own a Telescope, you can still observe it with your naked eye or maybe get a pair of Binoculars. You won’t regret it buying.
Enjoy the Lunar Eclipse and do share your photos on my Facebook page.
You can follow my page for notifications. Here is the link to my page: https://www.facebook.com/Abubakershekhani.artist/
I have been practising Astronomy since 2007 and have been founder of multiple Astronomy related societies and clubs. You can read my contribution in Karachi Astronomers Society here.
About Total Lunar Eclipse
Video Credits: NASA Goddard
Concepts of Total Lunar Eclipse
Image source: Timeanddate.com
Mars Opposition Explained
Mars opposition, when the Red Planet lies opposite the Sun in our sky, occurs about every two years. Mars opposition on 27 July 2018 will be near its closest approach to the Sun, making it the most favorable opposition for skywatchers since 2003. This video from NASA gives an excellent explanation of Mars opposition.
Video Credits: Science@NASA science.nasa.gov
