Alberta to see total lunar eclipse this week

Alberta is expected to get a total lunar eclipse accompanying the fall’s Full Beaver Moon this week.

Calgary astronomer Neel Roberts, The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC), says it will make for a good view of the “witching hour” on Tuesday morning just after midnight.

“The Penumbral stage begins at 1:02 a.m, partial eclipse 2:09 a.m., totality 3:16 a.m. peaking at 4:00 a.m. and all ending by 6:56 a.m. before sun rise,” he said.

The Full Beaver Moon gets its name after the animals that build winter dams around this time of year.

‘Blood red moon display’

Neel adds during the eclipse’s peak, which is expected to last 86 minutes, people will be able to enjoy the view of “a blood red moon display.” It will be visible to the naked eye.

RASC Calgary will set up telescopes, so people can watch the Moon passes through the Earth’s shadow, and momentarily completely disappearing at North Glenmore Park/Weaselhead and Nose Hill at 64th Avenue NW from 1:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.

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RASC says all Calgarians are welcome to come and watch, as long as they dress warmly for the cold weather.

For tips on how to photograph the astronomical event, click here.

The next eclipse is set to be in March 2025.