For as long as humans have looked toward the sky, the cosmos has fascinated civilizations, inspiring everything from ancient myths to modern scientific discoveries. And among the celestial phenomena that have captured our attention, eclipses might be some of the most mesmerizing.
This August, Californians will have a chance to watch one unfold overhead as an almost total lunar eclipse transforms the full Moon into a deep coppery-red glow.
An (almost) total lunar eclipse is taking over California skies
On the night of August 27 into August 28, a partial lunar eclipse will be visible with 96% of the Moon entering Earth’s darkest shadow. That fact alone puts it firmly in the “practically total” category, and as the Moon moves deeper into the shadow, it should take on the reddish or copper color commonly associated with a blood moon.
The eclipse will be visible to the naked eye from anywhere in SoCal if skies are clear, so you don’t need a telescope or special equipment. It is also completely safe to watch without eye protection.
When and where to see the lunar eclipse in L.A.
The Moon will rise over Los Angeles at approximately 7:18 p.m., appearing low on the southeastern horizon. The partial eclipse begins at 7:34 p.m., while the most dramatic moment arrives at 9:13 p.m., when most of the Moon’s surface will be inside Earth’s shadow. The umbral eclipse ends at 10:52 p.m.
For the best vantage point, find a spot with an unobstructed sightline and as little light pollution as possible. Griffith Observatory will host public eclipse viewing from 7:25 to 11 p.m., while its live online broadcast will run from 7:25 p.m. to 12:05 a.m. (weather permitting).
Other spots worth considering include Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, Top of Topanga Overlook, Angels Point, and Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area.
What is a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through the shadow cast by Earth, which can only happen during a full Moon. During a partial eclipse, only part of the lunar disk enters the Earth’s dark inner shadow, or umbra.
This time, almost the entire Moon will disappear into that shadow, leaving just a sliver outside it. If you miss it, the next total lunar eclipse visible from Los Angeles won’t arrive until June 25, 2029.
