A lunar eclipse is coming before solar eclipse

Skywatchers are in for a rare cosmic treat with two events aligned to grace the sky in quick succession. The spectacle starts with a lunar eclipse that is set to captivate skywatchers across North and South America in the coming days. As the full moon rises during the late evening of March 24 into the early morning hours of March 25, it will travel through the Earth's penumbra, or the faint outer part of its shadow. This event, known as a penumbral lunar eclipse, will dim the moon's brightness ever so slightly, creating a subtle yet fascinating phenomenon.

The penumbral lunar eclipse can be difficult to notice by just a glance at the sky but the event offers a unique opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture a timelapse of the moon's gradual change in brightness.

For those interested in observing or documenting the eclipse, it's important to choose a location with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the sky.

Just two weeks later, on April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This dramatic event will see the moon completely blocking the sun, casting a midday twilight over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

Total solar eclipse on April 8! The Moon's perfect alignment will cast a stunning shadow, revealing the Sun’s corona. Outside the path of totality, witness a partial eclipse where the Sun will appear as a crescent shape.More info: https://t.co/K31JCVFslZ🎦: CSA pic.twitter.com/BgvGikrfRD

— Canadian Space Agency (@csa_asc) March 18, 2024