Full Moon Eclipse Sets Stage for Upcoming ‘Ring of Fire’

A new “eclipse season” has begun with today’s celestial event—a partial lunar eclipse that promises to captivate sky watchers across the continental U.S. and beyond. Following the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, this partial eclipse, which features the full “Harvest Moon” slipping through Earth’s shadow, will create a dramatic visual effect. As the moon moves into the Earth’s shadow, it will appear to have a darkened segment, resembling a bite taken out of it. This eclipse is not only visually stunning but also conveniently timed. It will occur shortly after moonrise, making it an accessible spectacle for many. To view the most striking phase of the eclipse, known as the “greatest eclipse,” enthusiasts can check precise timings in various articles and guides.

Today’s event is just the beginning of an exciting series of eclipses. The “Harvest Supermoon Lunar Eclipse” is the first in a sequence of three eclipses that will unfold over the next few weeks: on September 17/18, 2024, a penumbral lunar eclipse known as the “Harvest Supermoon Eclipse” will occur; followed by an annular solar eclipse, or “Ring of Fire,” on October 2, 2024; and concluding with a near lunar eclipse, or “Hunter’s Supermoon Eclipse,” on October 17, 2024. Together, these events create what is known as an “eclipse season.”

An eclipse season is defined as a period between 31 and 37 days when conditions are favorable for multiple eclipses to occur. These seasons happen approximately every 173 days, ensuring that there are always at least two eclipse seasons within a calendar year. Eclipses occur because of the unique alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. A lunar eclipse happens when Earth is positioned directly between the Sun and a full Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon. Conversely, a solar eclipse occurs when a new Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, obscuring the latter’s light. Typically, a solar eclipse is followed or preceded by a lunar eclipse due to these celestial alignments. Occasionally, a third eclipse may occur in the same season, as is almost the case this time with the near lunar eclipse on October 17, 2024.

The occurrence of eclipses is linked to the Moon’s orbital tilt. The Moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted by about five degrees relative to the Earth’s orbital plane around the Sun, known as the ecliptic. Twice each month, the Moon crosses the ecliptic at points called nodes. Eclipses happen when these nodes align with the Moon being either new or full. This alignment must coincide for an eclipse to occur. Approximately two weeks after a new Moon, a full Moon occurs (or vice versa), resulting in another eclipse. In some cases, a third eclipse might follow.

The most anticipated event in this eclipse season is the annular solar eclipse on October 2, 2024. Often referred to as the “Ring of Fire,” this eclipse will occur when the Moon partially obscures the Sun, creating a ring-like appearance of sunlight around the darkened Moon. Although not as dramatic as a total solar eclipse, this phenomenon will be a breathtaking sight, particularly in regions where the annular eclipse is visible. The “Ring of Fire” eclipse will be observable from a narrow path that stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, passing over Easter Island, southern Chile, and southern Argentina. The eclipse will last for over six minutes at its peak, offering spectacular views from these locations. Expect memorable images from Easter Island’s moai statues and Patagonia’s rugged landscapes.

Once this eclipse season concludes, sky watchers will have to wait about six months for the next one. The upcoming season will feature a total lunar eclipse on March 14, 2025, and a partial solar eclipse on March 29, 2025. Both eclipses will be visible from the U.S., though the solar eclipse will be observed only in the extreme northeastern states as the Sun rises eclipsed in the east. This future eclipse season will mark precisely one lunar year since the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. As we await these celestial events, let’s savor the current eclipse season. With clear skies and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to enjoy these extraordinary natural phenomena. Keep your eyes on the skies and embrace the wonders of our universe.