A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface.
The second lunar eclipse of 2024, or Chandra Grahan, will enthrall stargazers across the world. Scheduled to occur on September 18, 2024, this partial lunar eclipse will be visible in many parts of the world, but not in India. As the Moon remains below the horizon during the event, Indian observers will miss out on the celestial spectacle. However, the eclipse still holds religious significance across the country.
What happens during a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. Depending on the alignment, the eclipse can cause a partial or total obscuration of the Moon. During a partial eclipse, only part of the Moon is covered by the Earth's shadow, sometimes giving it a reddish hue.
Lunar Eclipse Date 2024
The Chandra Grahan will occur on September 18, 2024, with key phases as follows, according to Indian Standard Time (IST):
- The penumbral eclipse begins at 06:11 am
- The partial eclipse begins at 07:42
- Maximum eclipse: 08:14 AM
- The partial eclipse ends at 08:45
- The penumbral eclipse ends at 10:17 am
Although these are the official timings, observers in India will not be able to see the eclipse as the Moon will be below the horizon. The best places to observe this phenomenon include Europe, Africa, North and South America and parts of Asia.
Will the partial lunar eclipse be on September 17 or 18?
The eclipse officially occurs on September 18, but due to the onset of the sutak kaal on September 17, many may confuse the date. While religious celebrations begin a day earlier, the eclipse itself occurs on September 18.