Skywatchers across the Americas are in prime position to catch a deep partial lunar eclipse late next week, according to NBC News. The event is scheduled for the night of Aug. 27–28, with the moon passing through much of Earth's shadow.
NBC News reports that the eclipse will be a near-total one, meaning a large portion of the lunar surface will darken as it moves into the umbra, the darkest part of Earth's shadow. While it will not be a full total eclipse, the coverage will be substantial, making it a notable event for casual observers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
Multiple outlets, including Space and Sky & Telescope, have flagged the upcoming event as a significant celestial occurrence. Local news sources such as NBC4 WCMH-TV in central Ohio and Newsday on Long Island have also published guides on when and where to look, indicating broad interest across the United States. The timing favors viewers in North and South America, who will have the best vantage point for the entire event.
This eclipse follows a period of relative quiet in major lunar events, offering a chance for those who missed previous eclipses to witness a dramatic change in the moon's appearance. Unlike a total eclipse, the moon will not turn a deep red, but the shadow will visibly creep across the lunar disk over several hours.
For those in the Americas, the key is to step outside after sunset on Aug. 27 and look eastward. The eclipse will unfold over multiple hours, so there will be ample time to observe the moon's gradual darkening. Clear skies will, of course, be essential for the best view.
