It took 580 years to witness the longest lunar eclipse. The world is ready to see the longest partial lunar eclipse that will occur on 19th November. This phenomenon will be visible in some places of the United States and parts of Australia, East Asia, and South America. The 2021 lunar eclipse will remain the longest since the 15th century. The last lunar eclipse occurred on 18 February 1440.
The lunar eclipse will remain for around 3 hours 28 minutes and 23 seconds, as per the National Aeronautics and Science Administration (NASA). During the penumbral eclipse, the Moon is in the Earth’s outer shadow, in such case, the eclipse will remain for around six hours.
The Lunar eclipse occurs the moment the Earth, Sun, and Moon are aligned in such a way where Earth prevents the sun’s rays from reaching the moon. As a result, the moon is ‘eclipsed’ by the Earth’s shadow. The lunar eclipse has three types including partial, total, and penumbral eclipses. A partial eclipse occurs when Earth’s shadow covers the Moon partly. In a total lunar eclipse, it is fully covered by the Earth. While in the penumbral lunar eclipse, the Moon is covered by Earth’s outer shadow or penumbra. The lunar eclipse may take place more than once in a specific month. Three eclipses can also take place, which is a rare case. As per NASA, a total of 228 lunar eclipses will occur in the 21st century.
