Stunning Total Lunar Eclipse Captivates New Zealand Early Risers

A total lunar eclipse captivated early risers across New Zealand, offering a breathtaking view as the moon passed through Earth’s shadow. Observers were treated to a stunning spectacle, characterized by a striking red hue, as the sun began to rise.

Dr. Ian Griffin, the director of the Otago Museum, described his experience in Middlemarch. “I’ve been up since about three o’clock on Monday morning and I’m standing in the middle of my paddock in Middlemarch and watching the moon set; it’s very beautiful,” he shared with listeners of First Up. He emphasized the unique visual effect of the moon fading while the sun rose, creating a dramatic contrast between the blue sky and the red moon illuminating the hills.

The red coloration of the moon during the eclipse is a result of the Earth’s atmosphere scattering light. Dr. Griffin explained, “During a lunar eclipse, the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon and cuts off the sunlight to the moon. So if you were an astronaut on the moon right now, you would be seeing all of the sunsets on Earth with this beautiful red ring around the Earth, and that’s why we’re seeing this red colour on the moon.”

This spectacular event was not limited to New Zealand; lunar eclipses can be seen from various parts of the world, drawing the attention of astronomy enthusiasts everywhere.

Looking ahead, Dr. Griffin noted that astronomy fans in New Zealand have more celestial events to anticipate this month. “There’s another eclipse of the sun in a couple of weeks at sunrise on September 22, 2023. I’m very excited about that one because the sun will be rising half-eclipsed over the southern ocean, so that will be very exciting to watch,” he stated.

For those interested in future lunar events, the next blood moon visible from New Zealand is scheduled for late in the evening on March 3, 2026. As astronomical phenomena continue to capture public interest, the recent eclipse serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the universe.