NASA explains how to catch lunar eclipse in Scotland as moon turns blood red
Scotland's skies are home to many majestic happenings. From the Northern Lights to planetary parades, many people flock to our land to catch some of the rare phenomena taking place beyond our atmosphere.
The new year has already seen some pretty special spectacles take place above us, and this month coming is no exception. In March, there will be a lunar eclipse, which will see the moon will turn blood red.
NASA vows it will be "as if all the world’s sunrises and sunsets are projected onto the moon" when the event takes takes place. Scots are in with a good chance of seeing the event happen in just a few weeks' time.
READ MORE: Woman who thought stomach bloating was normal given devastating news
READ MORE: This is the exact date you should turn off your heating this year to save money
A lunar eclipse occurs when the sun, earth, and moon align, so that the moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, making it appear red-orange.
This is why lunar eclipses are sometimes called "blood moons".
The moon will light up red on the night of March 13 or early in the morning on March 14, depending on time zone.
You don’t need invest in any special equipment to observe a lunar eclipse, although if you have a pair of binoculars or an old telescope lying about, this will make the view even better.
You will see the lunar eclipse best in a dark environment away from bright lights. Astronomy enthusiasts will also be able to catch a glimpse of Jupiter and Mars on the night. Constellations may also be easier to spot than usual.
Elsewhere, in more worrying news, it has been confirmed that Earth faces an increased risk of asteroid impact in 2032, with chances of a collision now roughly doubled, though experts remain confident we're safe.
The asteroid in question, 2024 YR, was discovered last year and is set to make its closest approach to our planet on 22 December 2032. Measuring up to 90 metres across, it poses a potential threat as it comes within Earth's vicinity.
