Look up, Central Oregon: Partial lunar eclipse to light up tonight’s sky

CENTRAL OREGON — Central Oregonians have a reason to look up Thursday night, as a partial lunar eclipse puts on a celestial show over the High Desert. The moon will rise around 7:41 p.m. already in the eclipse, with the best view coming around 9:12 p.m., when most of the moon will be covered by Earth’s shadow.

Grant Tandy, an astronomical interpreter, says viewers should look toward the southeastern horizon as the moon rises.

“It’ll be kind of low to the southeastern horizon,” Tandy said. “Just after sunset, as the moon’s rising, you’re going to be able to see it.”

Could wildfire smoke change the view?

Central Oregon has dealt with wildfire smoke in recent days, but Tandy says a little haze may add something interesting to Thursday night’s show.

“It’ll basically just make the moon look a little more red,” Tandy said. “It might even enhance the red of the eclipse a little bit, which is kind of funny.”

That reddish appearance comes from the way Earth’s atmosphere scatters light. Tandy describes what eclipse watchers are seeing as essentially a “360-degree sunset” around Earth projected onto the moon.

Where should you watch?

No special equipment is necessary.

Binoculars can offer a closer look and a telescope works too, but Tandy says the eclipse can be enjoyed with the naked eye.

For the best experience, he recommends finding a location with a clear, low view of the southeastern horizon. Getting outside of town can also help avoid buildings and other obstructions as the moon rises.

And while the science behind an eclipse is fascinating, Tandy says part of the appeal is simply taking a moment to appreciate what is happening above us.

“When you see something like this, you’re seeing the geometry of the solar system in motion,” Tandy said.

His advice for Central Oregonians Thursday night is simple: step outside and take a look.

“It’s just a way to, like, get in touch with the universe,” Tandy said.

The eclipse will continue through the evening, giving Central Oregonians plenty of time to catch a glimpse.

Watch the video above for more on what to expect and how to get the best view of Thursday night’s partial lunar eclipse.