Southern California will witness an almost blood moon
during a partial lunar eclipse on August 27-28, 2026, as Earth’s shadow covers 93–96% of the moon, turning it red due to Rayleigh scattering.
The almost blood moon
phenomenon will captivate Southern California skies this week as a partial lunar eclipse transforms the moon into a reddish hue. The event, occurring overnight August 27-28, will see Earth’s shadow engulf 93–96% of the lunar surface, depending on the source, with the most dramatic view available just hours after sunset on the West Coast.
What to Expect: Timing and Visibility
The eclipse will begin at 9:38 p.m. ET/6:38 p.m. PT on August 27 and reach its peak at 12:12 a.m. ET/9:12 p.m. PT, when 93% of the moon will be in Earth’s umbra, according to NASA. The event will be visible across North America, with the best views in the U.S. and Canada, while Australia and Asia will miss the spectacle due to the moon’s position below the horizon.
Scientific Explanation: Rayleigh Scattering and Lunar Tint
The red coloration stems from Rayleigh scattering, a process where Earth’s atmosphere filters sunlight, allowing only red and orange wavelengths to reach the moon.
Despite the name “blood moon,” the eclipse will not be total. At its peak, a thin sliver of the moon will remain illuminated, preventing the full crimson transformation seen during total eclipses.
Historical Context: Rare Events and Future Predictions
This partial eclipse will be the last of its kind for North American viewers until a total lunar eclipse on June 26, 2029. A second partial eclipse, visible only in parts of the Southern Hemisphere, is scheduled for December 31, 2028, but will not be observable from California. The 2026 event marks a rare opportunity for West Coast stargazers, with the next significant lunar eclipse occurring over three years later.
For observers in Los Angeles, the eclipse will unfold shortly after sunset, offering a prime viewing window before the moon sets. Binoculars or telescopes can enhance the experience, allowing viewers to track Earth’s shadow creeping across the lunar surface.
How to Watch: Accessibility and Equipment
The eclipse is accessible to the naked eye, making it an ideal event for casual observers. However, those with binoculars or telescopes can witness the interplay of light and shadow in greater detail.
For those unable to view the eclipse directly, live streams from astronomy organizations and news outlets will provide alternative access.
What’s Next: The 2029 Total Lunar Eclipse
Skywatchers in North America should mark their calendars for June 26, 2029, when a total lunar eclipse will occur. This event will offer a full “blood moon” experience, with the entire moon passing through Earth’s umbra. Until then, the August 2026 partial eclipse stands as the most significant celestial event for West Coast observers, blending scientific wonder with a rare visual spectacle.
