Additional Coverage:
Tonight, a rare celestial event will grace the night sky. A Super Harvest Moon, the largest and brightest of the year, will coincide with a partial lunar eclipse.
The eclipse will be visible from most of North and South America, Europe, Africa, western Asia, and parts of Antarctica. It begins late Tuesday night and ends early Wednesday morning.
Supermoons occur when the moon’s orbit brings it closer to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter. The Harvest Moon, named for its proximity to the autumnal equinox, marks the official end of summer.
During a lunar eclipse, the Earth, sun, and moon line up, causing the Earth’s shadow to fall on the moon. The eclipse will partially shadow 8.7% of the moon, making it appear darkened and reddish.
Those unable to witness the event in person can watch livestreams online from TimeAndDate.com and Adler Planetarium.
The full moon will reach its peak in the United States at 10:35 p.m. EDT Tuesday and remain visible for approximately three days.
The partial eclipse begins at 8:41 p.m. EDT and peaks at 10:44 p.m., concluding at 12:47 a.m.
EDT on Wednesday.