Today, on Monday, the first lunar eclipse of 2024 is set to occur, as reported by Dunya News. However, unfortunately for skywatchers in Pakistan, this celestial event won’t be visible from their location.
The eclipse will grace the skies of regions where the Moon rises above the horizon during the event. Enthusiasts in America, the majority of Europe, parts of Asia including South/East Europe, Australia, Africa, and the northern and eastern reaches of Asia will be able to witness this phenomenon.
Regrettably, Pakistan won’t be privy to this spectacle due to the Moon’s position below the horizon during the eclipse. Classified as a penumbral lunar eclipse, its duration will span four hours and 40 minutes.
Understanding Penumbral Eclipses
Penumbral eclipses occur when the Earth positions itself between the Moon and the Sun, creating a shadow that partially covers the Moon’s surface. Unlike their more dramatic counterparts, penumbral eclipses are subtle events.
During a penumbral eclipse, the Moon traverses the Earth’s outer shadow region known as the penumbra. This zone, while dimming the Moon’s brightness, doesn’t entirely obscure its surface. Consequently, the Moon retains some illumination, albeit at a reduced intensity, throughout the event.
