The penumbral lunar eclipse on March 25, 2024 will be nearly imperceptible from much of Russia. The most noticeable phase of the event occurs over the Chukotka Peninsula, where the southern edge of the Moon’s disk is expected to take on a faint, dusky shade according to TASS.
The eclipse is scheduled to unfold from 7:53 to 12:32 Moscow time, with the Moon positioned in the constellation Virgo. During this interval, the Moon traverses the outer portion of Earth’s shadow, known as the penumbra, rather than entering the dark umbra.
Astronomers indicate that at the moment of the greatest penumbral phase, around 10:13 Moscow time, observers on the Chukotka Peninsula will have the clearest view. In those clear skies, the southern limb of the Moon will appear slightly dimmed, while those in Moscow will see the Moon approach the horizon as it sets.
The peak of the eclipse, expected at 10:13 Moscow time, is calculated to be 0.956 in fraction, meaning most of the Moon’s apparent diameter will lie within the northern part of Earth’s penumbra. The event lasts a total of 4 hours and 39 minutes and becomes visible to skywatchers in any location where the Moon is above the horizon.
Across a wide geographic swath, the maximum and partial phases of the lunar eclipse are anticipated to be observable from much of Europe, Northeast Asia, Australia, and large portions of Africa, as well as the Americas. Regions spanning the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, the Arctic, and even parts of Antarctica should also catch glimpses of the dimmed satellite as it moves through the penumbral shadow.
For residents planning to observe the sky in March, the key recommendation is simple: find a dark, unobstructed view with a clear horizon. While the Moon’s shading will be faint, moments of relative clarity and low air turbulence can help enthusiasts detect the subtle dimming along the Moon’s southern edge, particularly near the maximum penumbral phase.