PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – South Florida sky watchers will have the chance to witness a total lunar eclipse early Friday morning, as Earth’s shadow completely covers the moon.
The partial lunar eclipse is set to begin at 1:09 a.m. Friday, as the moon gradually takes on a dark orange tint.
The eclipse will reach totality at 2:26 a.m., when the full moon appears to have a reddish hue, often referred to as a “blood moon.”
The maximum eclipse, the point where the moon is closest to the center of Earth’s shadow, will be at 2:58 a.m.
Totality lasts until 3:31 a.m. Friday. Then, the moon starts to slowly emerge from Earth’s shadow with the partial eclipse coming to an end by 4:47 a.m.
For the best viewing experience, experts recommend heading to an area with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the western horizon. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye.
The celestial event will be visible across North and South America, with more than 1 billion people expected to be in the path of totality.
In locations where skies remain clear, the eclipse will be a stunning sight for early risers and night owls alike.
Cloud cover is not expected to impact visibility across South Florida, with forecasters calling for mainly clear skies Thursday night through Friday morning.