There will be a total lunar eclipse on Wednesday 26 May, coincidentally the same day as the biggest full moon of the year – when the diameter of the moon will be about 7 per cent larger than an ordinary full moon.
The total lunar eclipse will begin before ‘moonrise’, as the elevation of the moon will be quite low. The best observation places will be those with an unobstructed view to the southeast – weather permitting of course.
The total lunar eclipse will begin at 7.09pm and end at 7.28pm, with the maximum eclipse occurring at 7.19pm. During the period of the total lunar eclipse, the moon will not completely vanish but will appear as dull red. This is the result of the blue part of sunlight being scattered away by the Earth’s atmosphere and the remaining red light refracted onto the moon.
If you can’t find a good vantage point the eclipse will be live-streamed: www.hko.gov.hk/en/gts/event/webcast-20210526.htm.
The next lunar eclipse observable in Hong Kong will be a partial lunar eclipse on 19 November, 2021.
Images: HK Observatory