Kuunpimennyksen

Kuunpimennyksen, also known as a lunar eclipse, is an astronomical event that occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. This celestial alignment can only happen during a full moon phase. The Earth's shadow is composed of two distinct parts: the umbra, which is the darkest, central part of the shadow, and the penumbra, which is the lighter, outer part.

There are three main types of lunar eclipses: total, partial, and penumbral. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the entire Moon passes through the Earth's umbra. During a total eclipse, the Moon often takes on a reddish hue, sometimes referred to as a "blood moon." This phenomenon is caused by sunlight being filtered and refracted through Earth's atmosphere, scattering blue light and allowing red light to reach the Moon. A partial lunar eclipse happens when only a portion of the Moon enters the Earth's umbra. A penumbral lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes only through the Earth's penumbra, resulting in a subtle dimming of the Moon's surface that can be difficult to observe without careful attention.

Lunar eclipses are visible from any location on Earth where the Moon is above the horizon during the eclipse. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view directly with the naked eye, binoculars, or a telescope without any special protective eyewear. They are relatively common events, occurring several times a year, though total lunar eclipses are less frequent. Observing a lunar eclipse provides an opportunity to witness a beautiful and predictable astronomical display.